Flaminio Vacca

(Roma, 1538 - Roma, 1605)

in the way of

The Medici Lion is an archaeological sculpture originally located in Rome in the gardens of Villa Medici. The sculptor Flaminio Vacca was commissioned to create a pendant towards the end of the 16th century. Both sculptures are currently positioned on the sides of the steps of the Loggia dei Lanzi in Florence. 

The copies were produced during Grand Tour period and later. The extraordinary chiselled finish and the fine patina place the sculpture closer to Tuscan products inspired by Giambologna. Similar model, also with variations in the position of the legs, is attributed by Charles Avery to the foundry of Giovan Francesco Susini (Michael Hall collection).