Decorative Bronze Box With Lion Detail By John W. Mills (1933-2023)

A solid bronze box or decorative casket detailed with lion masks in relief to the lid by acclaimed British sculptor, John W. Mills. Possibly unique, this unusual piece forms part of the artist’s Caged Lion series which explores the symbolism of confining such a great and powerful beast to a cage. A lecturer at St Albans School of Art from 1962-70 and Hertfordshire College of Art and Design from 1970-77, Mills took inspiration for this thought-provoking collection from the lions at London Zoo after taking a group of students there to observe the animals during his teaching career. From here, he created the Caged Lion series, crafting a range of sculptural figures and original maquettes marked with vertical lines representative of the bars of a cage as showcased on this bronze box. Select pieces from the Caged Lion series formed part of John W. Mills’ ‘Lions’ exhibition at the Pyramid Gallery, York in 2016. John W. Mills (1933-2023) John Mills was a highly acclaimed English sculptor, celebrated across the globe for his contemporary statues, bronze figures and artistic maquettes. Mills showcased a flair for sculpture from a young age, first exhibiting at the Royal Academy of Arts in 1951 and then hosting his first one-man show at the AIA Gallery, London in 1959. Throughout his distinguished career, Mills went on to received several prizes and accolades and many notable commissions. Some of his most famous works include the monumental memorial to The Woman of World War II in Whitehall, London and the National Firefighters Memorial near St. Paul’s Cathedral, London. Following the sculptor’s passing in 2023, the contents of John W. Mill’s creative studio at his family home in Hinxworth Place, Hertfordshire were dispersed. This sculpture formed part of this curated collection, from which we selected several pieces, offering a rare chance to obtain original works made by the artist, including sculptural pieces for garden, interior and exhibition. Price includes Artist’s Resale Rights (ARR) at 4%.Provenance: Hinxworth Place; The Estate of John Mills (1933-2023) CONDITION REPORT Good condition. Unsigned. Transports as 2 pieces; lid is not hinged but shaped to fit casket beneath.