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CHESHIRE ANTIQUES CONSULTANT LTD

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Item Details

Monumental French Architectural Cast Iron Statuary Plinth, Second Empire, c.1860–1890
Description
A rare and monumental French architectural cast iron statuary plinth dating from the Second Empire period, circa 1860–1890.
Exceptionally well cast and of imposing proportions, this substantial architectural stand was originally intended to support a marble sculpture, carved stone urn, bronze figure or other monumental garden ornament. The rectangular platform retains its original raised retaining edge, confirming its purpose as a permanent architectural support rather than a conventional table.
Raised upon four boldly modelled lion monopodia supports terminating in powerful clawed feet, the plinth combines structural engineering with refined sculptural modelling, demonstrating the exceptional quality associated with nineteenth-century French architectural ironwork.
Retaining an outstanding naturally weathered surface developed over many decades of outdoor use, it presents today as an impressive example of reclaimed architectural salvage, equally suited to an interior setting, orangery or formal garden.
Attribution
In the manner of Fonderie d'Art du Val d'Osne and Antoine Durenne.
Although no surviving foundry mark is evident, the quality of the casting, naturalistic modelling and monumental proportions closely relate to the work of the leading French art foundries active during the second half of the nineteenth century.
France, circa 1860–1890.
Historical Context
During the reign of Napoleon III, France became the foremost producer of monumental cast iron architecture. Renowned art foundries supplied châteaux, public parks, civic buildings and private estates with fountains, statuary, urns and architectural furnishings of exceptional artistic and engineering quality.
Architectural plinths of this type formed an integral part of formal landscape design, providing permanent supports for marble sculpture and classical ornament. Surviving examples remain increasingly scarce, particularly those retaining their original weathered surfaces and untouched patina.
Design & Construction
The sculptural lion monopodia supports are undoubtedly the defining feature of the piece. Each displays finely modelled musculature flowing into boldly articulated claw feet, lending the plinth both strength and visual movement while maintaining classical balance and proportion.
The restrained rectangular platform allows the sculptural supports to become the principal decorative element, reflecting the sophisticated relationship between utility and ornament characteristic of French architectural design during the Second Empire.
Produced using traditional sand-casting techniques, the iron displays subtle hand-finished variations that distinguish it from later industrial production. The exceptional thickness of the casting further reflects its original function as a support for monumental sculpture, with an estimated weight of approximately 180 kilograms.
Dimensions
Height: 50 cm
Top Surface: 67 × 46 cm
Overall Length (including rear projection): 75 cm
Width Across Feet: 64 cm
Overall Length Across Feet: 87 cm
Raised Retaining Edge: Approximately 1.5 cm
Estimated Weight: Approximately 180 kg
Provenance
Acquired from a private architectural antiques collection and believed to have originated from a French château or country estate, where it would have served as the display base for an important marble sculpture, stone urn or bronze ornament before being carefully reclaimed and preserved.
Curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD.
Condition
Presented in very good antique condition, commensurate with age and original outdoor use.
The surface displays a rich naturally developed patina with historic oxidation, weathering, pitting and areas of surface wear accumulated over well in excess of a century. These characteristics contribute significantly to its authenticity and architectural character.
The casting remains exceptionally solid and structurally sound, with no obvious evidence of later structural repairs.
Shipping
Due to its exceptional weight of approximately 180 kg, this piece is available for collection by prior appointment or can be shipped via a specialist fine art, furniture or pallet courier.
Please enquire for a bespoke delivery quotation within the United Kingdom or internationally.
Every item offered by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD is carefully handled, professionally prepared for transport and accurately described to provide complete confidence when purchasing exceptional fine art and architectural antiques.

• Period: 19th century
• • Price: £9,000.00
  • €10,498 Euro
  • $12,027 US Dollar
• Location: London
• • Dimensions: H: 50cm (19.69in)
  • W: 87cm (34.25in)
  • D: 75cm (29.53in)