Patinated bronze allegory sculpture of strength, late 19th century

bronze sculpture with a nuanced brown patina depicting the Allegory of Strength, dressed in a belted tunic, standing beside a column topped with a lion's head and terminating in claws representing the lion skin of Hercules, a symbol of courage. She wears a diadem. The figure rests on a black marble base.

Fortitude is one of the four cardinal virtues. It represents the strength of character that allows one to overcome fear, humanity's greatest obstacle. The allegory of Fortitude is often accompanied by a lion, in reference to Hercules, but sometimes by a column evoking the hero Samson, or by a shield.

19th century, Circa: 1870

Condition report: In good overall condition. Signs of wear consistent with age on the marble.

Marble base dimensions: L: 23cm; D: 17cm; H: 3cm