Page 53 - Highlights of the Collection

Monumental lion

Southern Spain or Southern Italy, 1000-1200
H. 73 cm, bronze

At the crossroads of East and West, this medieval
masterpiece is one of the most important works in
the Islamic tradition to come from the Mediterranean
basin. This lion, exceptional on account of its size and
original function, is most likely a product of Spain or
Highlights of the Collection southern Italy. Analysis has revealed, however, that the

copper used to create the lion came from a mine in
Cyprus, known since ancient times to Arab craftsmen
and geographers. In the manner of other courtly
objects, it may be an automaton designed to emit
Louvre Abu Dhabi noises, with the body acting as the resonator, while
air and sounds are emitted through the throat.

50