Artwork preview

Rearing Lion (Vyala)

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The sculpture depicts a rearing lion-like creature. The creature has a large head with a wide open mouth showing teeth. Its body is long and curved, resembling a serpent. The creature has two front legs, one raised and one lowered, and two back legs that are not visible. The creature's body is adorned with intricate designs and patterns. The creature is standing on a rectangular base. A smaller creature, possibly a mythical or animal-like being, is carved on the front of the base, beneath the lion-like creature's body. The smaller creature appears to be holding or supporting the larger creature's body. The sculpture is made of stone or metal and has a weathered appearance. The background is a plain gray color. The title of the sculpture is "Rearing Lion (Vyala)" and the artist is unknown.

Artwork Details

Date
10th century
Medium
Stone
Culture
India
Dimensions
469 × 625 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette