Originally, this graceful sculpture may have stood at the doorway of a palace or temple as a warning to all malicious spirits not to enter. The tradition of lions guarding doors and gates is ancient and common to a great variety of cultures, including the Egyptians, Assyrians, Romans, and Chinese. There is a strong Chinese influence in this piece, suggesting open relations between the two cultures.

18th Century - Rajputana, India

Dimensions: 16 1/2" x 5 7/8" x 11 5/8"