Considering
that the dragon is the sacred symbol of imperial China, guardian
lions are powerful and miraculous protectors that stand in
front of the Chinese imperial palaces, emperors' tombs and
government offices since Han Dynasty (206 BC-220 AD). Originally,
guardian lions were represented with both forefeet on the
ground, and later the male would hold a ball that may represents
the sun, the creative principle, or simply treasure of the
place which it was guarded. The feminine principle of the
lioness is indicated by the cub playing beneath her raised
paw.
This
large pair of guardian lions are made of gilded cast iron.
Their broad muzzles, jagged frontal ribs, jutting fangs and
square open jaws preserved a powerful force of character,
despite a slightly rusted surface, they are undoubtedly vigorous
in appearances and crisp in forms.
