Bronze handle in the form of a lion

early 5th century B.C

Not on view

Animal-shaped attachments are commonplace on Greek bronze vases, and the form of the lion is readily adaptable for integration into a handle. Lions were a popular subject in Greek art during the Archaic period. In antiquity lions were seen as guardian beasts. In contrast with the more common sculptural depictions of lions as fierce and menacing, however, the lion on this decorative handle appears relatively harmless.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Title: Bronze handle in the form of a lion
Period: Archaic
Date: early 5th century B.C
Culture: Greek
Medium: Bronze
Dimensions: H. 12 cm
Classification: Bronzes
Credit Line: Bequest of Nanette B. Kelekian, 2020
Object Number: 2021.40.2
Curatorial Department: Greek and Roman Art

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