One of a pair of colossal stone winged lions (C656 and C657). The winged lion is a mythical animal primarily containing lion and dragon features. They are often placed in pairs at the beginning of a pathway that leads to a burial mound. Depicted in a running motion, this male lion and its female counterpart demonstrate strength and power through emphasis on muscle. It was believed that they would enhance the dignity of the tomb, glorify the memory of the deceased and protect against evil spirits. This piece has one horn and a beard falling onto its chest. The legs, tail, and ears are broken and partly missing.
[Book] Horne, Lee C. 1985. Introduction to the Collections of The University Museum.. Philadelphia. The University Museum. Actual Citation : Page/Fig./Plate: 59
[Article] Jayne, Horace H. 01 Jan 1939. "Chinese Art at the University Museum". Parnassus. Vol. 11. no. 1. Actual Citation : Page/Fig./Plate: Illustration
[Book] March, Benjamin. 1929. China and Japan in our Museums.. New York. American Council, Institute of Pacific Relations. Actual Citation : Page/Fig./Plate: 87
[Article] Siren, Osvald. 1928. "Winged Chimeras in Early Chinese Art". Eastern Art. Philadelphia. College Art Association of America. Vol. I. no. No. 2. pg. 86-96 Actual Citation : Page/Fig./Plate: 86-96, Plates 9, 10
