Guardian lion

Place of OriginJapan

Date1250-1300

PeriodKamakura period (1185-1333)

MaterialsWood with traces of pigment

DimensionsH. 24 3/4 in x W. 9 1/2 in x D. 20 1/2 in, H. 62.8 cm x W. 24 cm x D. 52 cm

Credit LineGift of Mr. L. H. Krusi

Object numberB69S33

DepartmentJapanese Art

ClassificationsSculpture

On View

On view

LocationGallery 26

More Information

According to Japanese tradition, a lion such as this one with its mouth wide open appears to be saying “ah.” Originally this lion was paired with a dog with a horned head whose closed mouth seemed to be saying “um.” Devotees recognized the supernatural power of these creatures, selecting them to guard Buddhist and Shinto shrines.

Subject