Greek Archaic Bronze Lion, ex-Leo Mildenberg

Ancient Greece, Archaic Period, ca. mid-6th century BCE. A gorgeous cast-bronze lion figurine displaying exquisite stylization characteristic of Archaic Greek artistry. The feline lays in a recumbent position with forelegs extending from powerful shoulders, hind legs curled tightly against the side of the powerful body, and a sinuous tail curved over the haunches. The right-facing head is raised proudly and displays incised almond-shaped eyes, a flush nose atop a rounded muzzle, a thin mouth, and a rounded mane with perky ears projecting from the upper corners. Finely-incised striations denote the musculature of the front shoulders, delineate the toes on all four feet, and express the fur along the mane and tail. Modeled with a majestic presentation and a regal countenance, this is a fabulous example replete with sophisticated technique and lustrous green and russet patina. Size: 2.8" L x 1.875" H (7.1 cm x 4.8 cm); 3.125" H (7.9 cm) on included custom stand.

For a stylistically-similar example facing the opposite direction, please see The Metropolitan Museum of Art, accession number 1972.118.59: https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/255372

A larger yet stylistically-similar example hammered for $7,500 at Christie's, New York Antiquities auction (sale 2450, June 9, 2011, lot 78): https://www.christies.com/lotfinder/ancient-art-antiquities/a-greek-bronze-lion-archaic-period-circa-5443261-details.aspx?from=searchresults&intObjectID=5443261&sid=740afdd2-6eb2-48d7-a551-938d3d8b87e1

Provenance: private Florida, USA collection, acquired in 1997 from Rhea Gallery, Zurich, Switzerland; ex-Leo Mildenberg collection, Zurich, Switzerland. Consignor possesses a letter that indicates the piece was authenticated by the restorer of the Archaeological Museum in Zurich, Switzerland in 1997

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#143403
Condition Report: Small chips and abrasions to body, head, and base commensurate with age, with softening to some finer details particularly around face, and light encrustations within lower casting cavity, otherwise intact and excellent. Light earthen deposits as well as great green and russet patina throughout.