Imperial Guardian Lions English 1 Louise S. McGehee 2005 By: Allison and Ayanna “Imperial Guardian Lions”

Representation of the Guardian Lion The guardian lion is a worshiped animal in the Chinese culture. –A protector of all homes, businesses, and palaces. The guardian lion is portrayed as a courageous and powerful animal. “Gilded iron Guardian Lion Antique and Collectibles”

History of the Guardian Lion Lions have never been native to China. They were presented as gifts to Emperor Zheng. They quickly spread throughout all of Asia. The guardian lions are dated back as far as the Han dynasty (206 BC-220 AD). The Guardian lions are also known as Fo Dogs.

Myth of the Fo Dogs The main myth of the Guardian lions comes from the Buddhist founder (Sakyamuni). It is said that he was seen after birth to point to the heavens and the earth while roaring like a lion. Soon after, the lions were adopted as guardian lions. Through this tale the lion has become the protector of dharma. –Dharma is celebrated by the religion of Buddhism and Hinduism. – It examines how good people were in their past lives, and then decides what role they will take for their next life.

Description of the Male Guardian Lion The male lion’s right paw rests upon a ball, which he protects. –The ball represents the earth, the sun, and the empire. The male or female will have different number of curls on their head. –The more curls the higher ranking official who reside in the building. “Gilded iron Guardian Lion Antique and Collectibles”

Description of the Female Guardian The female’s left paw lays on top of her cub. As the female guards her cub, she guards the structure where she is placed. –She protects the people inside. The female, paired with the male lion, always sits on the right side. “Imperial Guardian Lions”

Still Recognized Today Today, the guardian lion is still recognized all through Asia and throughout the world. Over the years the guardian lion has been interpreted into many things. A myth of the guardian lion has lead to the celebration of the lion during the Chinese New Year. “Students describe tradition, folklore of celebrating the Chinese New Year.”

Still Recognized Today cont… Today guardian lions can be seen at restaurants and seen hanging from peoples’ houses. Also can be visible at the site of the Forbidden City and the Forbidden Gardens. “Imperial Guardian Lions”

Work Cited Braun, Chet. “No Lions in China.” WLE Wing Lam Enterprises. 4 January 2005.< art 033.html>. “Guardian Lion Pairs.” Buddha Museum. ArtRampage Design. 4 January Hales, Stephen. “Rex in the Classroom 2005.” handout

Work Cited cont… Hathaway, Jessica. “Students describe tradition, folklore of celebrating the Chinese New Year.” Vanderbilt. 4 January “Imperial Guardian Lions.” Wikipedia. November January

Work Cited cont… Long, Loa. “Chinese Stone Lions.” News finder. August January