Swiss Black Forest Lucerne Lion Wall Plaque

Description From our Black Forest collection, we are pleased to offer this finely carved Swiss Black Forest Lucerne Lion Wall Plaque, dating to the late 19th century, circa 1890. The plaque is skilfully hand carved with excellent depth and detail, and serves as a scale representation of the famous Lion Monument in Lucerne, Switzerland. The monument, originally designed between 1820 and 1821, commemorates the Swiss Guards who lost their lives during the French Revolution. This rendition depicts the lion lying in repose within a naturalistic cave setting, its paw resting on a shield bearing the fleur-de-lis of the French monarchy, alongside a second shield with the Swiss coat of arms. Above the lion, the Latin dedication “Helvetiorum Fidei ac Virtuti” translating to “To the loyalty and bravery of the Swiss” is carved into the surround, mirroring the original inscription found on the Lucerne monument. Below, the base of the carving features the names of officers and soldiers, alongside figures of those who died or survived, faithfully echoing the historical plaque. This piece was most likely produced by Laubscher Frères of Meiringen, a highly regarded workshop known for its detailed carvings of the Lucerne Lion and other exemplary Black Forest works. A moving and historically rich piece, it brings together the emotional weight of a national symbol with the craftsmanship of Swiss folk carving. The rear of the carving has pencil which reads (₣)2100 which is likely referring to a price previously from Switzerland. Today 2100 Swiss francs is approximately 1976 pound sterling. REFERENCE Swiss Carvings The Art of the ‘Black Forest’ 1820-1940 page 98 and 163 More about the Monument LUCERNE LION The Lucerne Lion Monument in Switzerland, designed by Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen and carved by Lukas Ahorn in 1820–1821, is one of Europe’s most famous memorials. It was created to commemorate the Swiss Guards who lost their lives defending King Louis XVI during the storming of the Tuileries Palace in Paris in 1792. The colossal rock relief shows a mortally wounded lion resting on shields bearing the fleur-de-lis of France and the Swiss cross, symbolising loyalty and sacrifice. Described by Mark Twain as “the most mournful and moving piece of stone in the world,” the Lucerne Lion remains a powerful national symbol and a celebrated landmark, visited by over a million people each year. For further information please see our article The Lion of Lucerne and Its Legacy in Swiss Black Forest Carvings. MORE ABOUT BLACK FOREST CARVINGS Swiss Black Forest carvings are highly collectible hand-carved works of art, originating from Brienz, Switzerland in the 19th century. Typically crafted from linden wood or walnut, these pieces feature intricate depictions of animals, daily Alpine life, and whimsical figures. Popular subjects include bears, stags, dogs, eagles, and boars, with rarer animals and larger carvings commanding premium value. Collectors prize quality, realistic detailing, original glass eyes, and occasional carvers’ signatures, all of which significantly enhance desirability. For further information please see our article on Swiss Black Forest Carvings. CONDITION Very Good antique condition Measurements 42cm High x 55cm Wide x 6cm Deep (16.5 x 21.6 x 2.3 Inches) WHY BUY FROM JACKSONS ANTIQUE? At Jacksons Antique, we are a small family-run business with over 10 years of experience in the fine antiques trade. We are proud members of LAPADA (The Association of Art & Antiques Dealers) and CADA (The Cotswold Art & Antique Dealers’ Association), trusted by collectors, interior designers, and private clients worldwide. Every piece we offer is individually sourced, carefully researched, and fully authenticated, accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. We provide insured worldwide shipping and secure checkout via Stripe, a global payments provider trusted by companies including Amazon and Booking.com. With every order, you will receive our latest printed product guide, a certificate of authenticity, and full tracking details so you can follow your item from dispatch to delivery. For complete peace of mind, we also offer a no-hassle money-back guarantee. We provide flexible layaway options and a level of personal service that larger retailers simply cannot match. When you buy from Jacksons Antique, you are supporting sustainable, environmentally conscious collecting and helping to preserve historic objects rather than contribute to mass production. Sign up to our free monthly newsletter to enjoy ten percent off your first online purchase.