AN AUCTION house has launched its very own inquisition after two life size statues of Spanish soldiers were found at an Ulverston house clearance.

David Brookes, fine arts valuer from 1818 Auctioneers at Crooklands, said he had never seen anything like the statues in his 35 years of valuing antiques.

“I have asked colleagues and antique buyers for their opinions but nothing has come of it other than a bit of excitement and further speculation," he said.

"I have also looked to see if they may have come from a large country house that no longer exists or one that has been converted, but I have found nothing."

According to Mr Brookes the wooden carved statues date from the 19th century, modelled in the style of native Spanish Conquistadors, and possibly made in the Black Forest region of Germany.

Standing just under seven-foot-tall, including detachable plinths, the bare-chested warriors are depicted wearing animal skins and a helmet.

Mirroring each other, they hold clubs which rest on their shoulders. The bases are well decorated with animal masks and seated heraldic figures.

He added that the carving is detailed and skilfully done and the wood is stained a deep brown.

"Beyond that, they are a complete mystery and one that we could do with solving," he said.

"We know the Victorians loved their busts and statues; everything from knights in armour, angels and lions to athletes wrestling serpents. Technological advances meant they were made out of all sorts of materials and ranged in size from the miniature to the massive. Statues were collected by the wealthy and the middle classes to decorate their homes and, in the case of these two soldiers, to make a grand statement possibly either side of a doorway or the foot of a staircase.

“I would love to know where they were made, and by whom, and how they came to find their home in a modern house near Ulverston. Unfortunately that story has been lost with the owner."

The statues will be sold at 1818 Auctioneers two day sale on June 5/6at the firm’s saleroom at Junction 36.

They are estimated to make between £3,000 and £5,000 but Mr Brookes said they could easily exceed that figure given how unique and well-made they are.

Anyone with information can contact Mr Brookes on 015395 66204.