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, above rectangular section panel sided plinths, the lions 64cm high, 130cm long, the plinths 66cm high, 142cm long, 56cm wide, 130cm 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