A MONUMENTAL PAIR OF MARBLE BUDDHIST LIONS

The Buddhist lion has long been recognised as a powerful symbol of strength and protection in Chinese art. They are usually depicted in pairs, as in the current lot, with the male playing with a ball and the female with a cub. Statues of these majestic beasts were often placed outside important buildings such as residences of officials. Lions are not indigenous to China but their image was popularised with the introduction of Buddhism. They are sometimes seen as a symbol of the Buddha, as well as the protector of sacred buildings. The character for "lion" in Chinese, shi, is also a homophone for 'teacher or master'. Marble lions such as the present pair, placed outside residences, were therefore auspicious symbols of high social status and prosperity.

Special Notice

Specified lots (sold and unsold) marked with a filled square ( ¦ ) not collected from Christie’s, 8 King Street,London SW1Y 6QT by 5.00pm on the day of the sale will, at our option, be removed to Crozier Park Royal (details below). Christie’s will inform you if the lot has been sent offsite.If the lot is transferred to Crozier Park Royal, it will be available for collection from 12.00pm on the second business day following the sale.Please call Christie’s Client Service 24 hours in advance to book a collection time at Crozier Park Royal. All collections from Crozier Park Royal will be by pre-booked appointment only.Tel: +44 (0)20 7839 9060 Email: cscollectionsuk@christies.com.If the lot remains at Christie’s, 8 King Street, it will be available for collection on any working day (not weekends) from 9.00am to 5.00pm

Pre-Lot Text

PROPERTY FROM A PRIVATE ENGLISH COLLECTION