Giant marble lions "roar" into auction

A giant pair of marble lions is the striking feature of E.J. Ainger’s forthcoming “architectural and art deco almost single vendor” auction, according to managing director John Ainger.

“The lions were part of a Templestowe mansion belonging to a well-known Melbourne business identity that he tore down 10 years ago and have been stored ever since in a Bentleigh warehouse,” he said.

The lions (each of which weighs about two tonnes) are not the only massive architectural feature at the auction, which will be held from 11am Sunday December 2 at 433 Bridge Road, Richmond.

A circular marble table 2.5 metres in diameter (weighing about one tonne) is another impressive attraction – along with enormous heavy oak and bronze entrance doors and French art deco wrought iron gates measuring 2.7 by 1 metres that were part of the architectural features.

This auction is definitely not for the faint hearted and auction goers will be open mouthed at the array before them when they walk through Aingers doors on Sunday.

Another strong feature of the mansion was its art deco eight-branch ceiling lights and large art deco furniture including sideboards, wardrobes, dining tables and chairs, a bar and matching wrought iron mirrors.

Among the art deco items is a shell-shaped mirror, and wrought iron framed wall mirror and over mantel mirror.

Another attraction is an art deco palisander vitrine with two panelled and a central glazed door.

There is a walnut two-leaf extension dining table and six high back chairs along with a marble top sideboard with two panelled doors.

A mahogany and Macassar ebony marble top chest, breakfront sideboard with central marble top and cocktail trolley are other art deco items on offer.

Unusual is the art deco patinated bronze marble and ivory clock, and composite dancer figure.

According to John Ainger, the furniture will suit a spacious art deco or modern home, while the lions would be the perfect adornment for a vineyard or other large property entrance.