Marble lion - Périgord 17th century

Marble lion – Périgord 17th century
24 x 19 x 14 cm


Small marble lion wearing a coat of arms pendant with the engraved date, probably 1633.
Sitting in profile, the head turned; the mane composed by juxtaposed winding wicks, covering half of its body; the tail passing between the hind legs and returning to the side. Stylized head with engraved large almond shaped eyes and holes in the place of the mouth and ears where water probably gushed out.

The presence of the coat of arms pendant suggests that the sculpture was designed to be placed at the entrance of a noble castle.
The “kings of animals” with his reputation of strength, bravery and nobility well reflected aristocracy ideals and it was often used for heraldry.