Two magnificent mid 19th century French cast iron lions, by J.J. Ducel and Fils, both striding forward with mouths open looking to the left, both stamped J. J. Ducel and Fils, 116 cm wide, 35.5 cm deep, 91 cm high (2). Note: The firm of J.J. Ducel was started in 1810 at Poce in the Pas-de-Calais, one of the leading manufacturers specializing in architectural fittings as well as urns and statues. Following the death of Monsieur Ducel in 1878 the Val d'Osne foundry purchased the firms patterns.