Lion Crushing a Serpent, Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia

From Visit Philly:

French sculptor Antoine-Louis Barye helped establish a 19th-century school known as the animaliers, artists who focused on animal subjects, frequently as stand-ins for human emotions. Barye’s portrayal of a lion subduing a serpent illustrates his fondness for dramatic animal battles. The lion, however, is not an ordinary beast. It represents the French monarchy, and the serpent is a universal symbol of evil. Hence this sculpture convinced the French king to name Barye to the Legion of Honor.

2 Comments on “Lion Crushing a Serpent, Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia

  1. I especially appreciate the intricate detail on the lion’s paw. Nice work and picture.

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