Pair of 16th Century Italian Renaissance Carved Wooden Lion Supports

Description

Hand-carved in the 1500s, these Italian lion supports are the work of a master-level craftsman. It is possible that they … more Hand-carved in the 1500s, these Italian lion supports are the work of a master-level craftsman. It is possible that they were originally legs for a High Renaissance cassone. A fresh coat of French wax has accentuated the dark brown finish, allowing the nuances of the carvings to gain prominence. The smiling lions are very expressive, with a wry grin, exposing their sharp teeth, and attentive eyes. A pair of front paws emerge from the long flowing mane that covers the lion. Both lions are affixed to a rectangular attachment block, allowing them to once again function as supports, such as wall brackets or furniture feet; most owners will prefer to use our carved Renaissance lions as sculptural art. less