FOUR TIBETAN GILT COPPER REPOUSSE PLAQUES 19TH CENTURY Each in the shape of a snow lion

FOUR TIBETAN GILT COPPER REPOUSSE PLAQUES

19TH CENTURY

Each in the shape of a snow lion, three standing on their haunches with their front paws raised towards the sky, the fourth standing four-square on a lotus base with a halo behind him, all gilded and with traces of cold painted decoration, 45.7cm max. (4)

Provenance: from the collection of Dr J S Gordon.

In Tibetan mythology, the snow lion symbolises courage, altruism and discipline. It is one of the four dignities of the Shambhala Path along with the dragon, the tiger and the Garuda. Images of eight snow lions were present on the flag of Tibet until 1950.