Christophe Fratin (1801-1864) Pair of Bronze Cups with Bears

Christophe FRATIN (1801 - 1864) Pair of bronze cups known as "with bears" in brown patina. The stems depict acrobatic bears perched on a base adorned with elephant heads. The interiors of the cups are decorated with eagles facing a serpent. This duality between the eagle and the serpent symbolises the struggle between good and justice represented by the eagle, and evil or sin represented by the serpent. This symbolism is illustrated in the Bible but also by the legend of Tenochtitlan, which is reflected in the modern emblem of Mexico. Signed at the base. Height 17 cm.