Patinated Bronze “Medici” Lion, 32 cm – Mid‑20th Century Italian
Patinated Bronze “Medici” Lion, 32 cm – Mid‑20th Century Italian
A handsome bronze study of a striding lion in the celebrated Medici tradition, finely modelled with a vigorously curled mane and a warm brown patina. The Medici Lions—one ancient Roman and one carved in 1598—have stood since the 18th century at the Loggia dei Lanzi in Florence and became icons of power and protection, endlessly copied by Grand Tour travellers and later collectors. This mid‑20th century example captures that Renaissance spirit in a substantial, freestanding sculpture that sits beautifully on a desk, console or mantel.
- Patinated bronze alloy, 32 cm L x approx. 16 cm H (12.6 x 6.3 in)
- Unmarked, as many workshop casts of the period are.
Dating/provenance: A private collection. From the casting and surface, this looks like a mid-20th century Continental (very likely Italian) foundry piece, sand- or lost‑wax cast, then chemically patinated. No visible foundry stamp in the photos.
Condition: light age rubs and tiny scuffs to patina; new felt pads can be supplied on request. Presents very well.
Origin: Continental (likely Italian) foundry, c. 1950–1970
Time Period:
Historical Context
Historical Context
The archetype is the celebrated pair known as the Medici Lions—one ancient Roman (2nd century AD) and its pendant carved in 1598 for the Villa Medici in Rome, moved in 1789 to the Loggia dei Lanzi, Florence. From the early 1800s these lions were among the most copied subjects of Grand Tour bronzes and later Renaissance‑Revival decor. Smaller bronzes were made throughout the 19th–20th centuries for libraries, mantels and desks. Many later versions drop the “paw on a sphere” in favour of a striding pose like this.
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