Fabrication Française - Thomas François Cartier (1879-1943) - Sculpture, Leeuw - 30 cm - Spelter

Expressive and powerfully designed lion sculpture according to the design of the French animal sculptor Thomas Cartier (1879–1943).

The sculpture is made in patinated spelter (regule) and bears a clear casting mark “Fabrication Française Paris”, a French art foundry that was active in the first decades of the 20th century and known for high-quality decorative sculptures for the international market.

The sculpture has a very expressive look, with nicely worked manes, a tense body posture, and a powerful open mouth. The patina is dark and warm in tone, with light wear appropriate to its age and use.

A decorative and collectible French animal sculpture from the early 20th century, circa 1900.