Bronze Lion With Sphere - Italian Work, XIXᵉ Century, Probably Earlier

Bronze lion with sphere - Italian work, XIXᵉ century, probably earlier

Charming bronze sculpture with beautiful old black patina, featuring a walking lion, its front paw resting on a sphere.

The animal is depicted in an attitude that is both proud and dynamic. The head is slightly tilted forward, the paw firmly resting on the ball, the body taut and the tail elegantly curved, all lending natural movement and expressive presence. The abundant mane, treated in deeply chiseled locks, contrasts with the powerful volumes of the body and testifies to a vigorous and highly decorative modeling.

The figure of the lion dominating a sphere belongs to an ancient iconographic repertoire, a symbol of strength, vigilance and sovereignty. This type of representation is notably found in Italian decorative art, and naturally evokes the artistic tradition of Venice, where the lion is the historic emblem of the Republic of Venice.

The bronze surface features a deep, shaded black patina, elegantly revealing the sculpture's reliefs and emphasizing the piece's antique character.

The sculpture is currently presented on a Plexiglas circular base, added solely for presentation and not part of the original object.

A fine-quality decorative bronze with classic, timeless charm.

Italian work, XIXᵉ century, probably earlier.

Material: bronze
Patina: old black
Condition: well preserved
Base: presentation Plexiglas (not original)