Mercury-gilded Bronze Lion On A Marble Pedestal, 19th Century

A small sculpture mercury-gilded bronze depicting a resting lion, with its left frontpaw resting on a sphere.
Its dimensions and weight make it suitable for use as a paperweight.
The animal rests on a rectangular base made of red Languedoc marble. One side bears an engraved handwritten inscription that reads: “Château d’If… ?,” subjectto interpretation.
The modeling is precise, and gilding, applied in the past, retains a pleasant patina of age, making this an object one enjoys turning over to view from all angles.
Probably work of 19th-century Parisian workshops.
Dimensions: Length: 10 cm, Width: 6.5 cm, Height: 7.5 cm, Weight: 0.6 kg.
Good overallcondition. Please note: some wear on gilding, slight chips on marble at  base, and traces of grime.
Condition flaws are visible on  photos.
eclectic —We areare not experts, but we have been in the business for over 50 years.
Full refund provided without issue if you are not satisfied.
SIRET: FR 24 430113233. An invoice and certificate are included with each shipment.