German Heraldic Lion Bronze Statuette

A proud heraldic lion is the subject of this early 17th-century German statuette. The bronze was crafted by an artist from the circle of Hubert Gerhard, a 16th-century Dutch sculptor renowned for his work in terracotta. A student of Giambologna, Gerhard's sculptures display a Mannerist quality that is also evident in the present bronze. Wearing an ornate crown and standing proudly erect, the noble beast raises his forepaws to hold aloft a now-lost heraldic crest. The work's fierce leonine character is enhanced by the cat's lush mane and muscled body, which is well proportioned and reflective of the artist's mastery.

Circa 1600 

2 7/8" square x 9 1/4" high