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Guardian Lion

c. 600

The Cleveland Museum of Art

The Cleveland Museum of Art
Cleveland, United States

Lion sculptures like this example are often found at the entrance to Buddhist temples in China. It may seem as if they are there to protect the temple. Lions also have had strong associations with Buddhism since the religion’s origin; the dharma, or Buddhist doctrine, is said to be spread through his roar.

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Learn more about this artwork.
  • Title: Guardian Lion
  • Date Created: c. 600
  • Physical Dimensions: Overall: 78.8 cm (31 in.); Base: 49.6 x 41.8 cm (19 1/2 x 16 7/16 in.)
  • Type: Sculpture
  • Rights: CC0
  • External Link: https://clevelandart.org/art/1965.473
  • Medium: white marble
  • Department: Chinese Art
  • Culture: China, Tang dynasty (618-907)
  • Credit Line: Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund
  • Collection: China - Tang Dynasty
  • Accession Number: 1965.473
The Cleveland Museum of Art

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