Al-Andalusia.

Approximately 9 Cm x 7.5 Cm

Of a small steel lock in the form of a lion with the articulated arched tail. The figure is fragile and disproportionate, the surface is covered with delicate oriental plant decoration (lotus flowers inscribed in a rich “Quranic” verses)

So, judging from the remains left in the grooves of the engraving animal figuring on various parts of the body.

The simple forms of the body, its facial characteristics and its legs, are stands position as paired paws, which end with discs and are extremely short in relation to its body, are reminiscent of representations of animals that appear in Fatimid ceramics.

Overall, in good condition considering age, some abrasions and general rubbing to surface, as viewed.  

From a Swiss private art collection in 1911

Comes with a certificate from the Art Loss Register