Lot 97 , A rare and early English porcelain figure of a lion, possibly Bow, c.1750, L. 20cm, repairs and black speckling to the glaze
A rare and early English porcelain figure of a lion, possibly Bow, c.1750, the prancing lion with realistically painted mane and fur, the shaped base with two branch supports enamelled with foliage and flowers, probably outside decorated and re-fired, L. 20cm, repairs and black speckling to the glaze
Estimate £2,000-3,000
Compare a pair of Bow porcelain figures of a recumbent lion and lioness, c.1750 from the Franks Collection in the British Museum, number 1887,0307,I.11. The Franks Collection lion has a similar expression to its face and modelling of the mane and paws to the example in this sale.
The lion has been broken and re-attached with some old glue or filler around the area to the following areas: both hind legs, both hind feet where they join the base, the left branch joining his tummy, the right branch just below his right paw, his right paw just below his mane and around the lower part of his left leg, there is also a hairline crack extending between his two hind legs where his tail curls around and under and as mentioned in the description there is some heavy black speckling to the glaze particularly on the back and at the rear of the figure where it has probably been re-fired, there is also a shallow chip to the back edge of the base, there are also some small splinter chips / losses to the edge of the base, looking at reference books and museum collections no other examples of this figure is published.
Descriptions provided in both printed and on-line catalogue formats do not include condition reports. The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Interested bidders are strongly encouraged to request a condition report on any lots upon which they intend to bid, prior to placing a bid. All transactions are governed by Gorringes Conditions of Sale.
Sold for £2,200