Swiss Black Forest Lucerne Lion Wall Plaque

Jacksons Antique are pleased to offer this finely carved Swiss Black Forest Lucerne Lion Wall Plaque, dating to the late 19th century, circa 1890.

The plaque is skilfully hand carved with excellent depth and detail, and serves as a scale representation of the famous Lion Monument in Lucerne, Switzerland. The monument, originally designed between 1820 and 1821, commemorates the Swiss Guards who lost their lives during the French Revolution. This rendition depicts the lion lying in repose within a naturalistic cave setting, its paw resting on a shield bearing the fleur-de-lis of the French monarchy, alongside a second shield with the Swiss coat of arms.

Above the lion, the Latin dedication “Helvetiorum Fidei ac Virtuti” translating to “To the loyalty and bravery of the Swiss” is carved into the surround, mirroring the original inscription found on the Lucerne monument. Below, the base of the carving features the names of officers and soldiers, alongside figures of those who died or survived, faithfully echoing the historical plaque.

This piece was most likely produced by Laubscher Frères of Meiringen, a highly regarded workshop known for its detailed carvings of the Lucerne Lion and other exemplary Black Forest works. A moving and historically rich piece, it brings together the emotional weight of a national symbol with the craftsmanship of Swiss folk carving.

The rear of the carving has pencil which reads (₣)2100 which is likely referring to a price previously from Switzerland. Today 2100 Swiss francs is approximately 1976 pound sterling.

REFERENCE

Swiss Carvings The Art of the ‘Black Forest’ 1820-1940 page 98 and 163

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Condition 

Excellent Antique Condition

Please be aware all the items we sell are not new. They are either vintage or antique meaning they are used and bear qualities of being handled or used for many years. This typically will mean that the objects will have surface marks or wear consistent with long term use. 

Measurements

42cm High x 55cm Wide x 6cm Deep (16.5 x 21.6 x 2.3 Inches) 

Please buy with confidence, we have been in the business for over 10 years and have recently decided to pursue ebay due to the volume of stock we hold. We sell regularly aboard and double box all relevant parcels for safety.

We typically ship with Royal Mail or UPS. 

We do not use the Global Shipping Programme and ship in house using the correct antique tariff codes for smooth entry into each country. 

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