North Italian Recumbent Lion 12th-13- Century

A finely carved North Italian marble Lion , dating from the 12th or 13th century , depicted in a recumbent pose with his head raised and turned slightly to one side.
The sculpture displays the characteristic stylization of medieval stone carving, with a boldly modelled mane, powerful body and expressive facial features.
During the 19th century the lion was adapted for use as a fountain spout. This later alternation is discreet and not visible when the sculpture is viewed its intended upright position.