How Lion Statues Have Influenced Our Lives
For centuries, lion statues have stirred the interest of people from all over the world and have been used to adorn the front entrances of homes or set in the gardens where they became focal points, adding a sense of mystery and surprise in the garden. The interest in using lion statues to adorn the home and garden arose due to the majestic character of the lions and the belief that they will add strength and positive energy flow to the home. Also, most cultures see lion statues as heralding not only strength but courage and protection and it is therefore not surprising to know why lion statues are used as sentinels for the home or garden.
A Cultural Symbol
The lion has been a significant symbol in various cultures throughout history, with most cultures recognizing the lion’s majestic appeal and that it embodies many admired and respected traits. Lion statues are therefore sought after and regarded with much interest because they highlight the physical strength and courage of the lions. As such, lion statues are held in awe since they capture and represent the power and dominance of the lion, while its majestic appearance has long been associated with royalty, dignity, and authority.
Many people use lion statues to adorn the front entrances of their home or set them in the garden where they are believed to not only elevate the beauty of the garden but will also send positive energy flow to the home while guarding the home from receiving negative energy. Let’s discuss the cultural implications that lions have had on other cultures.
In Africa, the lion symbolizes power and nobility with many leaders in parts of Africa adopting lion nicknames to symbolize their position of authority and strength. Additionally, African paintings frequently capture the nobility and prowess of the lions through powerful and dynamic depictions that highlight their remarkable strength and courage. In Japan, Komainu also known as Lion-Dogs are used to guard Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples where they are believed to ward off evil spirits. These mythical majestic lion statues are usually used in pairs to flank the entrances to these religious institutions and possess fierce looks and heavy muscular bodies which Japanese believe will ward off evil spirits and protect holy spaces. In China, the Lion Dance is a traditional dance that is often performed during Chinese New Year and other Chinese festivals where it is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring fortune and prosperity to the Chinese people. Additionally, the Terracotta Warriors of Xi'an in China is a collection of over 8,000 terracotta soldiers that were buried with the first emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang, in the 3rd century BC. Archaeologists have uncovered several lion statues that are believed to have been placed to protect the emperor in the afterlife.
In Europe, lions have been depicted in heraldic art where their fierce some and powerful qualities have made them a familiar emblem of European royalties. One example is the Royal Coat of Arms which features three lions which was first used by King Richard I the Lionheart during the Third Crusade in the 12th century. The lion is also depicted on the flag of England and on England’s national football team’s badge where they are seen as symbols of bravery, strength as well as power.
The constellation Leo is also represented by the lion and stems from the Latin word for “lion” which is spelled the same: Leo. Leo is also known to be one of three fire element signs along with Sagittarius and Aries in the zodiac calendar and it is said that the zodiac sign Leo the Lion, symbolizes fixed fire, which is the most stable and steady of the three fire signs. People who hold the Leo zodiac sign are often described as leaders who are determined, assertive, and driven.
In addition to their significance in European culture, lions have also played an essential role in Christianity furnishing an inspiration that has been added to Christian art and literature. The Book of Revelation which is the last book of the Bible tells about the end of history and the second coming of Christ where the lion represents Jesus Christ's power and dignity. In Revelation 5:5, we read about Jesus: “Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah has conquered.” Jesus is the Lion of Judah.
In India, the Ashoka Pillars which are a series of pillars that were erected by Ashoka the Great in the 3rd century BC., are said to bear lion statues on the top of the pillars which symbolize Buddha's strength and compassion.
Lion statues were also popular in ancient Egypt, where they were often used on a very large scale to guard temples and tombs and were seen as powerful protectors of the dead. Lions were also thought to be a symbol of the king (Pharaoh) himself, representing his power.
These are some instances of the power of the lion and the manner these majestic animals have influenced our lives making them popular choices for home and garden decor.
Using Lion Statues in the Modern Era
There are many reasons why people use lion statues for the home in current times and most often, lion statues are purchased in pairs to flank the front entrances of the home for several reasons:
- To add grandeur to the home, thereby increasing a high level of sophistication and character to the landscape,
- Enhance the power and strength of the home with the majestic appeal of the lions,
- Protect the home from negative energy while increasing the positive energy flow to the house,
- Adding a touch of luxury and beauty to the home, making them excellent conversation pieces for the guests and hosts to discuss about.
Generally, people choose lion statues to beautify their home and many who can afford it may purchase bronze lion statues or marble lion statues to add to the character of their home. We recommend lion statues made of bronze or marble as they have been time tested and will not disintegrate over time. They also add a majestic appeal to the lion statues that you would not see with cheap resin or stone lion statues.
On a separate note, lion statues will do well even though you may have a modern home. While they can work well with traditional homes, you can find a lion statue that complements your existing décor in the marketplace today that will add personality to your space. We recommend quality bronze and marble lion statues to enhance the beauty of the home. For centuries, artisans have crafted some of the most beautiful sculptures from marble and have cast amazing bronze statues which add beauty and majestic appeal to the landscape.
How to Choose the Right Lion Statue
There are many types of lion statues in the marketplace made of several material types that come with a classic or stylized appeal. When choosing a lion statue, there are a few points to consider:
Type of Material
There are many types of material that are used to create and cast lion statues. They include such materials as stone, resin, aluminum, ceramic, marble and bronze. You need to see which type of material will work for you. Ensure that you choose a material that is durable and long lasting, and that will not crack under the weather. It must also complement the look of your home. You will not go wrong with bronze or marble statues. They will complement the look of your rooms or garden spaces very beautifully.
Style
There are many ways of producing lion statues and they can come either with a realistic appeal or highlighted with a modern stylized abstract look. Choose a style that works with your home and that will match the decor and aesthetic details of your home.
Size
You can get a lion statue with the dimension that works for you. Choose a size that works with the space allotted for it. Do not get lion statues that are too small that they look insignificant or too large that it overpowers the surrounding areas.
Once you have considered the above factors, you can start shopping for your lion statues. If you are bent on owning a pair of bronze lion statues, you won’t go wrong with the choice of bronze lion statues and sculptures we carry. Hand cast through the ancient lost wax process, you can be sure that your bronze lion statues come with quality and durability to withstand the harsh weather conditions here in the United States.
What to Expect When Placing Lion Statues Outdoors:
Most homeowners usually want to place their lion statues outdoors but there are several conditions such as weather conditions like sun and snow that you might have to watch out for. If your lion statue is placed outdoors, it is important to protect it from the elements especially during winter time. You may want to cover the statue with a tarp or other protective cover during this season.
Lion statues can set a beautiful focal point when left in your garden and if you have a small backyard, set the lion statue on a pedestal for adding impact to the surroundings.
Find a place that will add a good visual impact and ensure that your lion statues are not facing direct sunlight or will be toppled by strong winds. Where wind conditions are common, then it will be wise to choose lion statues that are made heavy such as bronze lion statues or marble lion statues which will give you a peace of mind since they are heavy and will not be carried off by the wind. Also, consider bolting them to the ground to protect them from the strong winds.
If space permits it, most homeowners often set the lion statues just outside their doorstep where they will add character to the overall view of the house. Certainly, a well-placed lion statue can add a unique focal point in your garden or backyard. Place the statue in the right location where it can be seen and admired as they are surrounded by the lush greenery and flowers in your garden.
You can also add a pair of lion statues at the entrance of your driveway or walkway which can add sophistication and curb appeal to your home. Lion statues have also been added to such places because it is believed that they will stand guard to protect your home from negative vibes. It will also look dynamic and majestic as they greet guests to your home. Seeing large lion statues will only elevate the interest of your guests when they meet good looking lion statues guarding your house. Choose lion statues that are UV-resistant so they will not lose their color over time and be aware that lion statues made of resin and ceramic may not survive the harsh weather over time. When facing conditions like snow, invest in lion statues that can withstand freezing temperatures. You may also want to cover the statues during the winter months to protect it from damage.
What to Expect When Placing Lion Statues Indoors:
If you are intent on keeping lion statues indoors, then find a place where they can be prominently displayed. A pair of lion statues at the entrance of your foyer or entry hall can create an impression for your guests when surrounded by other decorative furnishings like a mirror or a table holding a vase of flowers. Your guests will be bound to comment on your good decor sense making the lions a fine conversation centerpiece.
You can also add the lion statues to your home office or living room where they can enhance with a more scholarly presence. Some homeowners may like to add lion statues to their bedrooms. If you are one of those who might be contemplating adding lion statues to the bedroom, choose one or a pair that will add beauty to the room and ensure that they come with the right size as lion statues that are too big may look out of place if your bedroom is small.
Generally, you don’t go wrong adding lion statues to highlight the interior character of your home. Just ensure they fit well into the space allotted for them. It is important to balance the presence of lion statues with other elements in the room as you do not want to make the room look too cluttered or overwhelmed with the space allotted for them. Wherever you choose to have your lion statues, you can be sure that they will elevate the look of your room adding a first-class appeal to your living spaces.
At TimelessBronze.com, we believe in the quality of the lion statues we represent. Visit our bronze lion statues catalog for outstanding selections of sitting or standing lion statues that will add a majestic appeal to your landscape.