Antique Cast Iron Lion Sculpture Fountain / Water Spout - Early 19th Century

This is an unusual full-bodied cast-iron lion fountain or water spout, probably dating to the early 19th century, circa 1820–1840, and most likely English or French.

Most 19th-century lion fountain spouts are encountered in the form of masks or heads, making this complete seated lion form considerably less common. It appears to retain an old, possibly original, pale green painted surface, now extensively worn and weathered.

The interior of the projecting water spout contains a substantial deposit of calcium/limescale, consistent with prolonged use as a working fountain spout.

Whether it could practically be returned to use has not been tested, but it is a wonderfully sculptural object in its own right, with a particularly characterful treatment of the lion.

CONDITION Substantial age-related wear throughout, including extensive loss and wear to the painted surface, oxidation and corrosion to the exposed iron, and various small chips, losses and abrasions consistent with long outdoor use - as per images

The overall condition is as you would expect from an object of substantial age that has been displayed/handled/used, usually over the lifetimes of several owners.

DIMENSIONS

Height 31cm

Length 24cm

Weight 9.9kg

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