Guardian lion

Maker Unidentified artist

Date18th century

MediumMarble

DimensionsHeight: 36 inches (91.4 cm)

CultureChina

ClassificationsSculpture

Credit LineGift of Kerstin T. Schurman, in memory of her husband, George M. Schurman, Class of 1913

Terms

Sculpture
Stone
Animals
Balls
Bells
Buddhism
Cats
Chains
Coins
Collars
Flowers
Gems
Gourds
Harnesses
Leaves
Lions
Lotus petals
Lotuses
Money
Pearls
Pedestals
Peonies
Plinths
Potted plants
Religion
Spheres
Symbols
Tails
Tassels
Toys
Chinese

Object number73.061.001

Label CopyBelieved to have potent protective powers, pairs of lions traditionally stood guard at the entrances to many Chinese buildings, including imperial palaces, temples, government offices, and the homes of officials and wealthy elites. Representing the forces of yin and yang, the pair (73.061.001-.002) consists of a female lion with her cub (yin) and a male lion (yang) with one paw on an embroidered ball that represents the world. Within the context of a Buddhist temple, the lions serve as guardians of the dharma, the teachings of the Buddha.

Collections