- 144
After the Antique Italian, probably Rome, late 18th century
Description
- Lion with a Sphere under its Paw
- veined yellow marble
- After the Antique Italian, probably Rome, late 18th century
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 lion is distinguished by the veined yellow cream marble used, which lends to it an air of antiquity. The choice of marble would indicate a Roman origin for the sculpture, as it appears to reference sculptures in the famous Sala degli Animali in the Vatican, notably the Giaguaro, a yellow alabaster leopard inset with black marble spots, which is thought to be the work of Francesco Antonio Franzoni (1734-1818) dating to 1795 (Vatican inv. no. 383). The Sala degli Animali was commissioned by Pius VI (1717-1799), who wished to created a zoo of marble, filling his gallery with antique and later representations of wild beats. Many of the sculptures were either restored or conceived by Franzoni. A pair of yellow marble leopards with black marble intarsia spots in the Honolulu Museum of Art are similarly attributed to Franzoni (inv. no. 3240.1 and 3241.1). These dramatic beasts form another comparison for the present marble.