Bronze Lion
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- Title Bronze Lion
- Category Sculpture
- Medium Bronze
- Dimensions 5.5"h x 8"w x 4"d
- Notes The Ashanti is a subgroup of the Akan people in Ghana. Many bronze weights were made by the Ashanti through the lost wax casting technique*. Their origin is thought to have been influenced by the Arabs, as they were deeply involved in the Trans-Saharan trade. Each motif has its own philosophical meaning. The lion is rare in Sub-Saharan arts. The lion must be considered with the leopard, its cousin, as the two big cats have several symbolic similarities. They both symbolize leadership, particularly in the regalia of chiefs where they evoke strength, courage, wisdom, and regal beauty. The appearance of this lion is in line with other lion sculptures made by the Akan. The visible teeth evoke the Akan phrase “If the lion has no intention to attack, it will not show its teeth,” conveying the message of heeding the words of the chief. *Nii Otokunor Quarcoopome, "Art of the Akan." (Art Institute of Chicago Museum Studies, vol. 23, no.2, 1997), 135-97
- Artist Ashanti People Ghanaian
- Credit Clyde and Annie Matters Collection
- Location Lied Art Center 202
- Accession Number 1994.0003
- Status Checked Out
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