A bronze mounted carved and stained walnut lion-shaped lemon press, probably Italian 17th / 18th century

probably recalling the Venetian lion of Saint Mark, his tail and tongue in bronze, the hinged back opening to a lozenge carved oval interior to fit the fruit, on high rectangular plinth with concave frontside

- Collection Fritz Mannheimer, Amsterdam

Related Literature:

Veen, F. van 't, Palazzo; Verzamelingen van vroeg-Italiaanse kunst. Amsterdam 2008, pp 69-71.

In overall good condition with some minor dents, marks, scratches and losses to the carvings. Three larger marks to the proper left haunch of the lion. The legs carved separately, one with smaller restoration. Few knotholes and a split (circa 8cm. long) to the plinth. The lion standing loose on the plinth, attached with integrally carved wooden pins.
"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."

During his time as executive for the Amsterdam bank Mendelssohn & Co., Fritz Mannheimer (1890-1939) built up a large art collection. From 1921 on, he made it accessible to the public in his villa at Hobbemastraat 20.
The quality of his collection is comparable with the famous art collections of Andrew Mellon and Isabella Steward Gardner.
After Mannheimers dead the contents of his villa was purchased by the Germans in 1941. As a consequence of the Potsdam Agreement the collection was returned to Amsterdam after World War II. In 1952 a part became property of the Rijksmuseum, the rest was sold by the Ministery of Finance.