Lions were a common feature in Medieval art. The animal was associated with courage and chivalry and therefore frequently used to decorate embroidery. Churches/Christians would paint lions in between religious scenes as they were also believed to represent resurrection. Although popular among royalty, known as the king of the beasts, many of the upper class associated themselves with the motif thus used it for decoration, emblems and in heraldry.
Medieval Bronze Gilt Lion Finial
£ 375.00
A Medieval bronze gilt lion finial featuring the animal seated with its hind legs bent and its forelegs straight. The body is facing left but its head is facing forward. The piece has been delicately rendered with short incisions adding texture to the mane and curling tail. The reverse is flat and unworked and the lion sits upon a rectangular plinth. The piece is mounted on a custom-made stand.
Provenance: ‘The Ancient Menagerie Collection’ formerly the property of a Cambridgeshire lady, collected since the 1990s and acquired from auctions and dealers throughout Europe and the USA, now ex London collection.
Condition: Very fine condition, some wear to the gold consistent with age. Patination is visible to the reverse. Measurement of the lion without the stand: 3.1cm height, 2.2cm width
In stock
Weight | 41.8 g |
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Dimensions | W 3 x H 4.8 cm |
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