Roman, Imperial period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. Carved from a single piece of stone, a prone lion with a fierce expression and bearing teeth - one can almost hear his roar - as well as a meticulously incised mane, furry coat, and long tail swept over his right flank. Lion motifs were common in Rome, and Romans, always fans of exotic animals, seemed to have a special affection for the species. Size: 6.75" L x 3.625" H (17.1 cm x 9.2 cm)

In the classical world, lions symbolized power, wealth, and might. They were famously featured in many ancient myths, perhaps the most famous being that of Hercules (Greek Herakles) slaying the Nemean lion for his first labor. That lion's fur was believed to be impenetrable to attacks since according to legend it was made of gold and its claws were far sharper than swords with the power to slice through armor. In the end, Hercules defeated the lion by strangling it and wore its skin.

Lions were also favorite iconography for buildings, coins, and statues in the ancient world. Examples include the Lion Gate to the Citadel of Mycenae, the Terrace of the Lions on the island of Delos, and the lion hunt mosaic from Pella featuring Alexander engaged in a lion hunt. Of course lions were also used in the Roman arenas where they would fight other animals, such as tigers and bears.

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection

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#137674

Surface wear, nicks, and abraded areas as shown. Losses to rear section.