Lion sculpture Il Leone di Nittardi

The Venetian Lion – a symbol of peace

Few cities embody the ideal of art and wine as perfectly as Venice, the unique lagoon city where Amy Ernst – who designed the label and wrapping paper for Casanuova di Nittardi 2024 – studied, and which is also the home of Stefania Canali.

La Serenissima, ‘the Most Serene’, the city where nothing grew but everything arrived, was once the most important trading metropolis for wine, oil and spices, as well as treasures from all over the world. At the same time, it was one of the most generous patrons of the arts. Its wealth nurtured masterpieces that continue to inspire us to this day.

The finest symbol of this spirit is the city’s heraldic animal: the winged lion of St Mark the Evangelist, Venice’s patron saint. It symbolises light, strength, courage and wisdom. In its paw rests an open book bearing the greeting of peace: ‘Pax tibi Marce, evangelista meus’ (‘Peace be with you, Mark, my evangelist’). Thus, the lion embodies Venice’s aspiration to bring trade, peace and art to the world.

This lion also lives on at Nittardi. For over forty years, a winged lion has stood watch in the courtyard, proud, courageous and protective. Out of love for Venice, many companions made of terracotta, granite, bronze and Corten steel have joined him in the lion collection at Nittardi. You can purchase the authentic Venetian bronze lion from us.

Name: “Il Leone di Nittardi”, the Venetian bronze lion

Technique and material:
Cast in bronze by Roman Pecher from Mariánské Lázně, Czech Republic, using the lost-wax casting process
Numbered, with the Nittardi signature
Edition: 12 copies | Dimensions: 43 x 19 x 31.5 cm | Weight: 8.5 kg

Available for immediate delivery