Pair of lions. England, XIX century.

Pair of lions. England, XIX century.
Bronze.
Measurements: 10 x 18 x 8 cm.

Pair of ornamental lions in round bulk made in bronze, finished with a dark patina that enhances its volumes. This type of representations, although already present in Antiquity, have their direct origin in the animalistic sculpture of the 19th century. During that century, animal-themed statuary finally achieved its own status within the context of Romantic sculpture. Seeking to break away from the classical sculptural ideal, many artists saw in the animal theme a new way of expression, linked to the emotional and irrational nature, combined with a certain air of serene nobility clearly classical. On the other hand, these are lions, animals endowed with a deep symbolism throughout the history of Western art. Representing strength and courage, the lion is considered the king of the terrestrial animals, a solar beast closely related to light, among other reasons for its strength, its golden color and the radial distribution of its mane. In ancient times it was attributed the peculiarity of never closing its eyes. Other properties that make it a symbolic animal are its courage, its fierceness and its supposed wisdom. On the other hand, as a symbol of power and justice, it is often represented on thrones and royal palaces, as well as in universal heraldry.