Description
Did you now the unicorn is Scotland’s national animal? They could have picked Nessie, but went with the most magical creature ever conceived. We’re not certain if this massive brass beast is in a state of “prance”, but the pose is utterly striking. Although this mythological masterpiece stands freely on three legs, we’re providing a custom made, solid wood, base that we hand painted black. The base is secured with screws into the hooves. The horn can also be easily unscrewed for safe transit.
This exceptional unicorn is nearly three feet long and is almost just as high! This monumental work supplants all brass animals we’ve seen from the era. The golden hue, marbled patina sculpture features elaborate details like a finely embellished mane and elaborately etched horn reaching toward the sky. The legs are elegantly poised, making the unicorn at home wherever it may stand. This magnificently rendered legend is sure to make a statement. Vintage 1970s, “Made in India” marking under hoof.
Measurements without base: 30″ Long x 6″ Deep x 26.5″ Tall
Condition: Replacements made: Although this unicorn stand stand freely on three legs, we have provided a custom made, solid wood base that we hand painted black. The base is secured with screws into the hooves. Wear consistent with age and use. Very, very very good vintage condition. Age appropriate (and beautiful) patina.
Unicorn history of Scotland:
When one thinks about Scotland and all the cultural symbols, legends and rich heritage of the country, what comes to mind? Maybe the thistle, the famous tartan, the iconic bagpipes, or even the Loch Ness monster.
Whilst this is all correct, one mystical figure has been hiding in plain sight across the nation, a mythological creature which has been tied to Scotland as a national symbol for centuries – the unicorn.
The unicorn was and still is an important creature with great symbolism of purity and innocence, power and ferocity. Throughout the ages, records of unicorns have entered the story-telling fables of several cultures. Historic accounts even include some sightings of creatures with one horn, said to resemble such an animal.
Across ancient civilisations ranging from the Persians, the Egyptians, Indians and Greeks, such a creature was described and recorded, often with magical connotations. Even the Bible makes a record of an animal called the re’em which has been later associated with the unicorn.
Whilst the animal did not appear in the vast volumes of Greek mythological tales, it was cited by philosophers and writers who believed in the reality of such a creature, with figures such as the famous Greek geographer Strabo claiming such creatures lived in the Caucasus region, whilst other philosophers were convinced of their existence in India. Whatever the location, the sighting of such an animal was a rare and mystical event. Often associated with the moon and believed to have great healing powers, the unicorn quickly acquired different meanings in different cultures.
In the coming centuries, the medieval depiction of a unicorn became a much beloved symbol in Christian art and even today, the unicorn holds resonance as a fantastical delightful creature which has captured the imagination of generations of people.
