Lot 348
  • 348

A pair of carved limestone reclining lions, AFTER ANTONIO CANOVA (1757-1821)

Estimate
15,000 - 25,000 EUR
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Description

  • 125cm. high overall; the pedestals 52cm. high, 163cm. wide, 71cm. deep each
raised on carved limestone pedestals

Literature

Related literature
M. Praz, Canova, Milan 1976, pl. XI.
J. Davis, Antique Garden Ornament. 300 Years of creativity: Artists, manufactures & materials, Suffolk 1991, plate 5:6, 5:7 and p. 228-229.

Condition

In overall good condition, with weathering to the surface. Overall with minor chips, dents, marks and scratches. One larger chip to the shoulder of the awake lion. The pedestals in reasonable good condition.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Catalogue Note

The monumental tomb of Clement XIII is by Antonio Canova, who worked on it from 1783 to 1792. It shows the pope kneeling in prayer with the tiara beside him, and to the left of the sarcophagus Religion dressed in Jewish sacerdotal garments; to the right, there is a semi-reclining funerary Genius.
The two superb lions, among the most beautiful creations by Canova, crouch underneath. The one awake, on the left, represents the energetic work of the Pope while the one asleep, on the right, symbolizes his moderation.