Large Black Forest Model of the Lion of Lucerne Dated 1867 - After Bertel Thorvaldsen

This is a large Black Forest model of the Lion of Lucerne dated 1867, after Bertel Thorvaldsen, carved from stained linden wood, the dying lion depicted beside two circular shields and an axe carved with crosses and fleurs de lys, set on a stepped base, extensively inscribed, and with sculptor’s name and date. Footnote: For a drawing and a similar example see Arenski, Daniels and Daniels, ‘Swiss Carvings, The Art of the ‘Black Forest’ 1820-1940’ Woodbridge 2005; p98, pl 146-147. The Lion of Lucerne was created by Bertel Thorvaldsen as the memorial for the members of the Swiss Guard who were killed defending the royal family during the French revolution in 1792.