Pair of 19th-Century Italian Stone Lions with Original Architectural Pedestals

An extraordinary and monumental pair of 19th-century Italian stone lions, complete with their original architectural pedestals, acquired from a private property in the Naples region of Italy.

Dating to the mid-to-late 19th century, the lions had remarkably remained at the same property for well over a century. Sculpted in a recumbent pose, each lion displays a commanding expression, deeply carved mane and powerful proportions, originally conceived to flank an entrance or form part of a grand architectural setting.

At some point during their history, the lions were removed from their pedestals and positioned at ground level within the property. Their substantial architectural plinths remained in the garden, where they were repurposed as planters. Now reunited, the lions and pedestals present as an exceptionally rare surviving ensemble.

Decades of exposure to the elements have created a beautiful, naturally weathered surface, with areas of patination, lichen, moss, wear and erosion throughout. These characteristics have deliberately been retained, preserving the authenticity and extraordinary history of the pieces rather than disguising their age.

Their scale, provenance and wonderfully aged surfaces give the pair an imposing presence—equally suited to a significant garden, entrance, courtyard or architectural interior.

Origin: Naples region, Italy
Period: Mid-to-late 19th century
Material: Stone
Set: Pair of lions with original architectural pedestals
Condition: Original antique condition with extensive natural weathering, patination and wear consistent with age and prolonged outdoor placement.

Dimensions:

Lion Height 0.93M x Length 1.76M x Width 0.75M

Pedestal Height 0.78M x Length 1.77M x Width 0.75M