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A PAIR OF CARVED WHITE MARBLE FIGURES OF RECUMBENT LIONS AFTER ANTONIO CANOVA (Italian, 1757-1822) 19TH CENTURY
Estimate
40,000 - 60,000 USD
bidding is closed
Description
- marble
- heights 20 1/2 in., 18 1/2 in.; lengths 43 in., 42 in.
- 52 cm, 47 cm; 109 cm, 107 cm
Condition
Erosion and discoloration to surfaces due to exposure to weather and outdoor conditions. Small chips to edges consistent with use and age. The lion that is roaring has a chip to tail (approximately three inches).
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
This pair of large lions is based on one of the most celebrated sculptures by Antonio Canova: the lions at the tomb of Pope Clement XIII in St Peter's, Rome. Canova flanked the Pope's tomb with one sleeping and one vigilant lion made from travertine. In 1823, the 6th Duke of Devonshire commissioned Rinaldo Rinaldi and Francesco Benaglia to make copies of Canova's lions. That pair is still in the sculptural gallery at Chatsworth.