Italian, probably Florence, early 19th century After the Antique

Overall the condition of the bronze is good, with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There are several minor nicks and scratches, including to the haunches. There is a small lacuna to the proper left front paw. There is some wear to the lacquer patina. The red marble base is in good condition with minor general wear, including a few very small chips.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Whilst the later of the two Medici Lions is known to have been carved by the Lombard sculptor Flaminio Vacca, no later than 1594, the same artist was the first to record the existence of the Antique original. At the same time, he noted that the Antique had already been acquired by Grand Duke Ferdinando for the Villa Medici in Rome, where the sculpture stood in the Loggia. Vacca’s companion Lion became partnered with the Antique in the Loggia around 1598, its authenticity assured by the inscription it bears, reading ‘OPUS FLAMINII VACCAE ROMANI’. The present bronze is a reduction of Vacca’s version, which in following centuries was often seen as technically superior to the Antique.

RELATED LITERATURE
F. Haskell and N. Penny, Taste and the Antique, The Lure of Classical Sculpture 1500-1900, London, 1982, pp. 247-250