A Pair of 18th Century Irish Stone Lions

Drawing on the so-called 'Medici Lions', this pair of statues possess a striking muscularity and poise. Symbolising wealth, power, and dynastic success, these lions have worn beautifully, taking on an excellent surface rich with age and lichen. Mounted on simple stone slabs, front paw resting on a sphere. From a private residence in Ireland.

Perhaps based on Joseph Wilton's interpretation of the Medici Lion, at Kedleston Hall, Derbyshire.

Similar lions, in lead, by John Cheere, purchased by Richard Grenville, Earl Temple, stood either side of the front stairs at Stowe House, in Buckinghamshire, until 1921, until they were removed to Stanley Park in Blackpool.

The 'Right Hand' lion, as one looks at the image above, measures 135cm (53 1/4") wide, by 53cm (21") deep, by 87cm (34 1/4") high.

The 'Left Hand' lion measures 133cm (52 1/2") by 51cm (20") by 86cm (33 7/8") high.

Ref: 6025

Make an enquiry via email here.
Call:+44 (0) 20 7730 2122

View all Antiques here.