Carved jade "Lion" figure, Han dynasty

A white jade figure, with reddish-gold spots, carved in the form of a 'Chinese lion'. The figure of the animal is well depicted, lying on its paws with its head tilted backwards. The face has a menacing expression, with bulging eyes above flaring nostrils, and a raised muzzle showing its teeth. The ears are drooping and highlighted with a scroll motif. The back is rough, like scales, and ends in a bushy tail. 

The form of the "lion" or mythical beast in ancient Chinese myths and legends is derived from the transliteration of ancient Sanskrit. Images of these figures are depicted on ancient textiles, belt buckles, seals, bells or buttons to ward off evil spirits. In the southern dynasties, stone statues were often found in front of tombs for the same reason. Han Dynasty (206 BC–220 AD).

Size: 2.5 x 3.3 x 4.8 cm

Weight: 44 gr.