Late 19th c. Cast Stone Griffin Sculpture c.1899

ABOUT

A 19th c. cast stone sculpture depicting a Griffin. Nicely patinated. Orginally part of the old San Francisco police station. 

• CREATOR Unknown. 
  
• DATE OF MANUFACTURE c.1899. 
• MATERIALS AND TECHNIQUES Cast Stone. 
• CONDITION Good. Wear consistent with age and use. No cracks. 
• DIMENSIONS H 36 in. x W 12 in. x D 16 in.
  

HISTORY

Griffin:

A griffin is a mythical creature typically described as having the head, wings, and talons of an eagle combined with the body, hind legs, and tail of a lion. Considered a powerful symbol of strength and wisdom, griffins are often associated with guarding treasure and have appeared in mythology and art since antiquity.

Mission Police Station:

Built in 1899, the two-story concrete police station was designed by the firm of Shea & Shea. Damaged in 1906, the police station was repaired – minus its original corner turret – and placed back into service. It remained in service as the Southern District station until 1950 when the SFPD moved to a new district headquarters at 1240 Valencia Street.