A Bronze Figure of a Lion, Urartu , circa late 8th Century B.C.

Probably from a candelabrum, couchant with tail curled over the right hindquarter, with gaping jaws and bared teeth, the whiskers and mane finely detailed.

Gawain McKinley, London, 1982

Very good, object was cast with hole of peanut-shape section extending throughout from back of neck to underside, another smaller hole, of circular section, on the underside between back legs.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

For related figures of lions facing outward on the tripod legs of an Urartian bronze candelabrum dated to the reign of King Menua (810-786 B.C.) see R. Merhav, Urartu: A Metalworking Center in the First Millennium B.C.E., Jerusalem, 1991, p. 264, no. 11, pl. 11.