Page 53 - Highlights of the Collection
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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.








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