Rare Pair of 17th-Century Venetian Lion Sculptures, Verona Marble 6" x 13"

This striking pair of 17th-century lions, carved from warm-toned Verona marble and likely crafted in Venice, offers a fascinating example of Venetian artistry and the imaginative style of the period. Traditionally in Gothic Italy, sculptures of lions like these were often placed at cathedral entrances, princely tombs, or palace portals, where they served as bases for slender columns or other architectural elements. The two square-section holes on each lion’s back reveal where these missing structures would have originally been affixed, suggesting that these pieces were once supports for columns, candlesticks, or similar decorative features.

Lions have long been symbols of strength, bravery, and nobility, qualities that made them popular as guardians at important thresholds, where they conveyed a sense of dignity and protection. What makes these lions especially captivating, however, is their whimsical, somewhat naive depiction—clearly carved by an artist who had never actually seen a lion in real life. The sculptor’s interpretation, with wide, almost human-like faces, large round eyes, and stylized curly manes, gives each lion an expressive character that is far from a realistic likeness. This imaginative approach, capturing both the artistry and limitations of the period, reflects how exotic animals were often depicted based on secondhand descriptions or artistic conventions rather than direct observation.

The lions are shown lying down with flat manes, and all protruding parts are smoothly polished, with visible tool marks across their bodies, adding to their unique, hand-crafted charm. They embody both the elegance of 17th-century Venetian craftsmanship and a playful interpretation of the king of beasts. These lions would make a captivating addition to any collection, perfect for display on a console or flanking an entryway, where their whimsical presence, symbolic nobility, and rich historical character can be fully appreciated.