A Finely Cast Renaissance Model of an Owl
A Finely Cast Renaissance Model of an Owl
Period 16th Century
Origin South Germany
Medium Bronze
Dimension 12 cm (4³/₄ inches)
Naturalistically modelled with feathers and wings, large claws to the feet and a wonderful expressive ‘wise’ looking eyes above a polished beak
Rich brown patina
Bronze
South German
16th Century
Size: 12cm high - 4¾ ins high
Provenance:
Ex Private European collection
Period: 16th Century
Origin: South Germany
Medium: Bronze
Dimension: 12 cm (4³/₄ inches)
Provenance: Ex Private European collection
Literature: cf: For an almost identical model, see, Sothebys, London, European Works of Art and Sculpture, 7th July, 1988, lot 59 (sold £7200 + b.p)
Birds, alongside horses, bulls, snakes, and crabs, were among the most popular subjects of Renaissance animal bronzes. These sculptures were likely inspired by the ancient votive antiquities of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman origin. They were frequently housed in their own designated ‘cabinets’ of ‘naturalia’ within the princely courts of Europe.
Finch & Co
Antiquities, ethnographica, natural history, sculpture and works of art
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