Figure of guardian lion - 933.12.4_1

933.12.4_1

Figure of guardian lion

Medium:Carved marble
Geography: China
Date: late 6th-7th Century
Period: Sui-Tang Dynasty
Dimensions:
9.8 x 11.3 x 16.4 cm
Object number: 933.12.4
Credit Line: Bishop William C. White Collection
On view
Gallery Location:Matthews Family Court of Chinese Sculpture
DescriptionWhile lions are not indigenous to China, their image was transmitted to the Chinese through Buddhist art, in which lions are often seen as guardians. Because Chinese artists couldn't see real lions, the lions they created over time developed into a special type of Chinese lion. The pair of large 17th century guardian lions at the Queen's Park entrance of the museum is a classic example.
Collection:
China
Department: World Cultures: Far Eastern
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