Lot 251: A pair of finely sculpted marble models of recumbent lions after Antonio Canova, 19thC, 63 x 50 x 117 cm. (24.8 x 19.6 x 46.0 in.), 60 x 50 x 122 cm. (23.6 x 19.6 x 48.0 in.)

A pair of finely sculpted marble models of recumbent lions after Antonio Canova, 19thC
The pair of lions are designed after the work of the Venetian sculptor Antonio Canova (1757-1822), of the sculptures which can be found on the tomb of Pope Clement XIII at the St Peter's Basilica in Rome. Each lion is portrayed with their forepaw resting above the other. One lion is sleeping, the other is vigilant.
On his death in 1769, Pope Clement XIII was laid to rest in the Vatican, but senator Abbondio Rezzonico (the nephew of the late pontiff) commissioned Canova to create a more fitting tomb for him in the St Peter's Basilica. The work which includes Canova's marble lions was completed in 1792.

63 x 50 x 117 cm. (24.8 x 19.6 x 46.0 in.), 60 x 50 x 122 cm. (23.6 x 19.6 x 48.0 in.)