Two reclining lions in sculpted marble, very fine quality, after a sculpture by Antonio Canova. Italy, 1940-1950s. They stand on marble pedestals that were probably part of a larger architectural frame. These lions were originally sculpted by Antonio Canova (Italian, 1757-1822) as a larger-scale pair for the tomb of Pope Clement XIII in St. Peter's Basilica. The sleeping lion symbolizes the pope's moderation, while the vigilant lion represents his energetic work.