A pair of sculpted limestone models of recumbent lions

A pair of sculpted limestone models of recumbent lions, 20th century, after Antonio Canova (Venetian, 1757 ~ 1822), each portrayed with forepaw resting above the other, on integrally carved rectangular socles, 82cm high, 155cm long, 60cm wide, above rectangular section plinths, 67cm high, 169cm long, 77cm wide, 149cm high overall Bidders from the UK and outside of the European Union should be aware that additional import charges may apply On his death in 1769 Pope Clement XIII was laid to rest in the Vatican, but Senator Abbondio Rezzonico (the nephew of the late pontiff) commissioned Canova to create a more fitting tomb for him in St Peter's. The work which includes Canova's lions in marble was completed in 1792, when the late pope's remains were removed to the new tomb