Pair of Large Carved Stone Stags on Pedestals From Italy

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This exceptional pair of large stone stags on pedestals has been made from huge blocks of Italian limestone. The details … Read more This exceptional pair of large stone stags on pedestals has been made from huge blocks of Italian limestone. The details and proportion of the stonework, executed by a master stone carver, are truly remarkable.

Our deer are situated in a lodged position, meaning they are lying down. Notice the realistic hair that has been carved around the neck. This is indicative of a European red deer, as many subspecies of this deer typically grow neck manes in the autumn. The eyes, nose and mouth of the deer have been expertly carved, giving the deer a semblance of life. Even the cloven hooves and the multi-pronged antlers show an appreciation for detail. Perhaps the most impressive feat is the way the carver portrayed the skeletal features, such as the knee joint in the bent leg, the spinal column, and the rib cage slightly protruding from the deer’s back and sides. The antlers have been shaped into highly realistic organic forms. Small steel pegs allow them to be inserted and permanently bonded into the head of the deer upon final installation.

Both stags rest on top of a stone pedestal with rectangular panels that have canted corners. There is stepped molding on the plinth and the cornice. Carved in 3 separate sections, the pieces have been bonded together for easier transport and installation. Our roughly life-sized deer are well-detailed, making them wonderful garden sculptures. They could also be installed flanking a walkway, or at the base of a set of stairs, drawing visitors’ eyes directly to the pathway. See less