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Learn MoreEarly 18th-Century Terracotta Lion Statue
- This 18th-century majestic lion sits proudly upon its base
- It is made of terracotta, a highly fragile material
- That it exists in such remarkable condition is astonishing
- The curls of the lion's mane bring his visage to life, as striking today as the day it was made
- Get complete item description here
$12,850
Item No.
32-0518
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Description
Terracotta Lion
Early 18th-century
A captivating blend of power and warmth, this majestic lion sits proudly upon its base, a noble guardian of the grand estate for which it was commissioned. While terracotta was traditionally used for maquettes in preparation for larger works, the 18th century saw it emerge as a favored medium among sculptors, allowing them to showcase their mastery of anatomy and expression—beautifully demonstrated in this exquisite work.
Highly fragile and. . .
Early 18th-century
A captivating blend of power and warmth, this majestic lion sits proudly upon its base, a noble guardian of the grand estate for which it was commissioned. While terracotta was traditionally used for maquettes in preparation for larger works, the 18th century saw it emerge as a favored medium among sculptors, allowing them to showcase their mastery of anatomy and expression—beautifully demonstrated in this exquisite work.
Highly fragile and. . .
Read More
Terracotta Lion
Early 18th-century
A captivating blend of power and warmth, this majestic lion sits proudly upon its base, a noble guardian of the grand estate for which it was commissioned. While terracotta was traditionally used for maquettes in preparation for larger works, the 18th century saw it emerge as a favored medium among sculptors, allowing them to showcase their mastery of anatomy and expression—beautifully demonstrated in this exquisite work.
Highly fragile and vulnerable to the elements, terracotta sculptures rarely survive in such pristine condition. The delicate curls of the lion’s mane remain remarkably intact, suggesting this work has been carefully preserved as a treasured part of a collection, its lifelike presence nearly as striking today as when it was first created.
Symbolizing strength, lions held a special place in European culture, frequently depicted in art and sculpture and even kept as living emblems of authority. The nobility took pride in their association with these regal beasts—none more so than the official state lion of Venice, housed in a golden cage in Piazza San Marco.
On base: 11" high x 10 1/2" wide x 5 1/2" deep
Early 18th-century
A captivating blend of power and warmth, this majestic lion sits proudly upon its base, a noble guardian of the grand estate for which it was commissioned. While terracotta was traditionally used for maquettes in preparation for larger works, the 18th century saw it emerge as a favored medium among sculptors, allowing them to showcase their mastery of anatomy and expression—beautifully demonstrated in this exquisite work.
Highly fragile and vulnerable to the elements, terracotta sculptures rarely survive in such pristine condition. The delicate curls of the lion’s mane remain remarkably intact, suggesting this work has been carefully preserved as a treasured part of a collection, its lifelike presence nearly as striking today as when it was first created.
Symbolizing strength, lions held a special place in European culture, frequently depicted in art and sculpture and even kept as living emblems of authority. The nobility took pride in their association with these regal beasts—none more so than the official state lion of Venice, housed in a golden cage in Piazza San Marco.
On base: 11" high x 10 1/2" wide x 5 1/2" deep
Read Less
Specifications
| Period: | 1700-1815 |
| Origin: | Other Europe |
| Type: | Sculpture |
| Style: | Renaissance |
| Depth: | 5.5 in. (13.97 cm) |
| Width: | 10.5 in. (26.67 cm) |
| Height: | 11.0 in. (27.94 cm) |
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Buy with Confidence
At M.S. Rau, we are committed to building a long-term, rewarding relationship with each and every client. That’s why your purchase is backed by our 125% guarantee.
Learn More
