🏛️ Neoclassical Grand Tour Bronze Sphinx – c.1820 Italy – Black Marble Base – 1.8kg

🎨 Myth, Mystery & Mastery in Bronze
This evocative early 19th-century bronze sculpture captures the enigmatic Sphinx — a timeless symbol of wisdom, power, and protection. Originating from Italy around 1820 during the height of the Grand Tour era, the piece blends classical mythology with neoclassical artistry. With the body of a lion and the serene face of a woman, the Sphinx bridges the mythological traditions of Egypt, Greece, and Rome.

These compact bronze figures were prized souvenirs collected by aristocratic travelers on the Grand Tour, offering a tangible connection to the ancient world. This example is a fine embodiment of that tradition, presenting a beautifully patinated figure poised in quiet strength atop a sleek black marble base.

🌀 Form & Finish
Crafted in the restrained yet elegant neoclassical style, the Sphinx’s composition speaks of timeless dignity. The lion’s body is rendered with soft musculature, suggesting latent power, while the feminine face exudes calm, idealized beauty. Subtle gilt highlights and a matte surface lend the figure a sophisticated patina, developed naturally over two centuries.

The polished black marble plinth provides a stark architectural contrast, emphasizing the organic grace of the bronze figure and reinforcing classical ideals of symmetry and balance.

👤 Attribution & Craftsmanship
Unsigned, as is typical of Grand Tour bronzes, this piece was likely cast in one of the distinguished foundries of Rome, Florence, or Paris. These works were the result of collaborative craftsmanship — mold makers, casters, and finishers producing refined bronzes for an educated and elite clientele.

The precision of this casting and the harmony of its design suggest a skilled neoclassical workshop, well-versed in both antiquity and the tastes of the 19th-century collector.

📜 Provenance
Sourced from George Johnson Antiques (formerly Westbourne Grove, London), a dealer known for museum-grade Grand Tour and classical pieces. A partial label remains affixed to the base. This piece was recently offered at a respected Southern Shire auction and curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD.

📏 Dimensions

• Length: 17 cm

• Width: 8 cm

• Height: 11 cm

• Weight: 1.8 kg

Compact yet commanding, ideal for display on a console, shelf, or in a study.

💖 Why This Piece Stands Out
✅ Authentic Grand Tour bronze sculpture, c.1820
✅ Timeless depiction of the Sphinx — protector, riddle-giver, and icon of antiquity
✅ Naturally aged patina with subtle gilt details
✅ Elegant neoclassical styling and form
✅ Mounted on a contrasting black marble base
✅ From a respected London antiques dealer with traceable provenance
✅ A refined, rare collectible for classical and mythological art enthusiasts

🧾 Condition Report
Good antique condition with surface wear consistent with age. Patina is well-developed and stable. One wing has been professionally repaired. The marble base shows minor chips along the edges but remains smooth and solid. Structurally sound and visually captivating.

🌍 Worldwide Shipping Available
Professionally packaged and fully insured for safe international delivery.

🖼️ Available exclusively through Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD

📩 Inquire now to secure this unique piece