Recumbent Lion Bronze on Black Marble Desk Sculpture / Paperweight, c. 1880–1910

Description Handsome small bronze of a recumbent lion, cast in a dark patina with warm highlights and mounted to a polished black stone plinth (granite/marble). A classic desk-size animalier subject—substantial in the hand and easy to place on a library shelf or office credenza. Highlights Patinated bronze lion with good mane and paw detail Solid black stone plinth—handsome weight and presence Desk-friendly scale; reads as a paperweight or diminutive sculpture Continental animalier tradition, late 19th to early 20th century Old paper label remnants on underside; secure single-bolt mount Why you’ll love it Animalier bronzes never go out of style. This one has a quiet, watchful pose that works in both classic and modern interiors, and the stone base keeps it chic and tidy on a desk. Dating & background Unmarked Continental work in the animalier tradition, **circa 1880–1910**. The recessed single-bolt mount with a **square nut** and slotted hardware is consistent with pre-1910 fittings; by the 1920s–30s hex nuts were the norm on most commercial mounts. These compact bronzes were popular as library or office accents, sold through better department stores and giftware retailers. Condition Good antique condition with honest wear: scattered rubs to the patina (notably at muzzle, mane, and paws), small nicks/flea-bites to the stone edges, and general surface dust/handling marks. Old label residue to the underside. Presents well and sits flat. Measurements (approx.) Base: 6 in L × 2.75 in W (16.5 × 8.3 cm) Overall height: 3 in (8.0 cm) Weight: substantial (shipping weight ~3–4 lb packed) Care Dust with a soft brush and microfiber cloth. If desired, revive the bronze with a micro-thin coat of museum-grade wax (e.g., Renaissance Wax). Avoid metal polishes on the patinated surface. Reference Material: bronze on black stone plinth (granite/marble). Mount: single bolt with recessed square nut to underside. Markings: unmarked.