Large Pair of Tibetan Gilded Snow Lion Plaques

This splendid, dynamic and highly decorative pair of gilded and enamelled copper wall plaques show dancing snow lions with their bushy tails and manes wild and flowing to show their movement. Each has been produced in high relief contributing to their sculptural quality. The two are a true pair – each is the mirror image of the other.

Each has a custom-made black metal stand enhancing the pair’s decorative value.

Each stands on the hind legs, with front paws aloft and the faces turned front-on to the viewer.

Each has a gilded body, with mouths agape, fangs revealed and red tongues protruding.

Loops to all paws allowed the lions to be fixed to a wall, most probably in a temple or monastery – perhaps near or at the entrance to fulfil a protective function.

Tibet is known as the ‘Land of the Snow Lion’.  In the Vajrayana Buddhist tradition, the snow lion is one of the four ‘dignities’ associated with the ‘wind horse’. The other three are the dragon, the garuda, and the tiger.

The plaques are in very fine condition. There are no repairs, cracks, weaknesses or amendments. Only some minor, age-related denting to the noses, as might be expected. As mentioned, each has a quality, custom-made black metal display stand.