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A PAIR OF GRAND TOUR CARVED CARRARA MARBLE RECUMBENT LIONS AFTER ANTONIO CANOVA Italy, mid 19th century
Estimate
10,000 - 15,000 USD
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Description
- carrara marble
- height 8 1/4 in.
- 21 cm
on Campan rouge marble and slate bases.
Condition
Overall in good condition. The marble lions with light wear and very slight areas of discoloration. Both bases with surface scratches, edge nicks and signs of earlier repairs along seams. Visible traces of glue to red and black marble base. Some black overpaint to lower edge of red base, now flaking.
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.
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.
Catalogue Note
The present models are small-scale reproductions of the originals at the base of the monument to Clement XIII in St. Peter's, Rome, executed between 1783 and 1792 by Antonio Canova (1757 - 1821). The immediate admiration of the tomb and in particular the power and beauty of the lions themselves led to their incorporation in further tomb sculptures. Canova himself used the idea not only on his design for the Venetian Francesco Pesaro but also memorably in the great pyramid tomb to Marie Christina of Austria (Augustinerkirche, Vienna). Copies were made in marble, terracotta and bronze in all sizes to meet the demands of European travelers on the Grand Tour, as in the present lot.