Patinated Metal Model Lion

A patinated metal model of a striding lion in the Grand Tour animalier tradition, approximately 20-25 cm long (measure before listing) and weighing 1.2 kg. The head is turned with the mouth open in a snarl, and the deeply modelled, curling mane is finely detailed against a smooth, muscular body. The dark brown-black patina wears to warm reddish copper on the paws and tail. The soles are unpolished and show natural pitting and wear. The weight and a small vent hole on top of the mane suggest a hollow casting. Non-magnetic. There is light hand-chasing on the belly, and the tail loops back to touch the base. No foundry mark or signature is visible. Probably late 19th to early 20th century, Continental.