A Finely Cast Renaissance Model of an Owl

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A Finely Cast Renaissance Model of an Owl

Finch & Co

Period 16th Century

Origin South Germany

Medium Bronze

Dimension 12 cm (4³/₄ inches)

A Finely Cast Renaissance Model of an Owl
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.

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