Antique Gilded Bronze Venetian Winged Lion Fire Chenets

A lovely set of Antique Gilded Bronze Venetian Winged Lion Fire Chenets aka. firedogs/andirons. This set features the profile of the powerful winged lion perched on top of his plinth. This powerful image carries rich symbolism that spans religious, cultural, and historical contexts.

Set includes the original metal support rods but is missing its middle section. This set would be a lovely decorative objet d’art in any setting.

Each chenet measures approx. 9.5”H x 9.25”W x 3”D

French, 19th century.

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More about the historical significance of the winged lion.

The winged lion, most famously associated with Saint Mark and the city of Venice, carries rich symbolism that spans religious, cultural, and historical contexts.

Symbolism of the Winged Lion:

1. Saint Mark the Evangelist:

   • The winged lion is the traditional symbol of Saint Mark, one of the four evangelists. It signifies his role as the author of one of the Gospels and his association with Venice, where his relics are said to be housed.

   • The lion often holds a book (representing the Gospel) with the inscription "Pax tibi Marce, evangelista meus" ("Peace be upon you, Mark, my Evangelist"), which conveys a message of peace and faith.

2. Power and Majesty:

   • The lion, as the king of beasts, represents power, strength, and majesty. The addition of wings signifies a divine or spiritual element, elevating the lion's symbolism to encompass both earthly and heavenly realms.

3. Guardianship and Protection:

   • The winged lion often appears in a guardian role, protecting sacred spaces, treasures, and cities. This protective symbolism aligns with Saint Mark’s role as the protector of Venice.

4. Union of Strength and Wisdom:

   • Combining the physical strength of the lion with the divine insight symbolized by wings, the winged lion embodies a union of brute force and spiritual wisdom.

Historical and Cultural Context:

• Venice:

  • The winged lion is most prominently associated with Venice, where it became the emblem of the Republic of Venice. It is seen throughout the city, from the Piazza San Marco to the city's official seals and coins.

  • The lion symbolizes the city’s patronage by Saint Mark and its historical maritime power and reach.

• Christian Iconography:

  • In Christian art, the winged lion is one of the four living creatures described in the Book of Revelation and the Book of Ezekiel, each representing one of the four evangelists (the others being a man for Matthew, an ox for Luke, and an eagle for John).

Artistic Representations:

• Architecture:

  • The winged lion can be seen in numerous architectural elements in Venice and former Venetian territories, often in a prominent and revered position.

• Coins and Flags:

  • Historically, Venetian coins and flags featured the winged lion, emphasizing Venice's connection to Saint Mark and its power.

Modern Usage:

• Cultural Symbol:

  • Today, the winged lion remains a potent cultural and historical symbol of Venice, representing its rich heritage and enduring legacy.

• Art and Media:

  • The winged lion continues to appear in various forms of art, media, and literature, maintaining its role as a symbol of strength, protection, and divine guardianship.

The winged lion, with its deep connections to Saint Mark and Venice, encapsulates a blend of religious significance, historical power, and cultural heritage, making it a powerful and enduring symbol.