North America, United States, ca. 1910 to 1920 CE. A rather large copper repousse lion head with an expressive visage, a remarkable architectural ornament that once adorned a Classical Revival style building. The entire head is comprised of copper, created via the repousse technique in which the artisan hammered and formed the metal from the inside out. The artist of this exquisite piece demonstrated great skill and artistry. I was immediately impressed by the lion's flowing mane, deep set eyes, somewhat regal snout with incised whiskers and open mouth! This roaring lion probably adorned an ornate cornice, adding an element of excitement to the roofline of a prominent work of early American architecture. More than likely, this lion would have been one of several similar lion heads, a member of a majestic ensemble embellishing the cornice, with acanthus leaves and other Neo-Classical motifs framing their manes, resulting in a flowing festoon of Classical ornament. A fabulous architectural ornament with gorgeous green patina! Perforation at top center for suspension. Size: 13.25" L x 12.5" W (33.7 cm x 31.8 cm).
Provenance: Ex-Paul and Louise Bernheimer collection, Cambridge, MA and Laguna Woods, CA., acquired before 1980.
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#112039
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品相报告
Minor bending to copper, particularly the nose area, and very minor erosion to peripheries. Nearly invisible hairline to chin that may in fact be a fold rather than a fissure. Encrustation and oxidation. Gorgeous green patina!