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Antique Khmer Style Bronze Temple Guardians or Lions (Pair) - 72cm/29"
Measures - (Height) 72cm/29"
In the heart of the ancient Khmer Empire, amidst temple complexes that still whisper stories of a glorious past, stood majestic temple lions guarding sacred thresholds. Inspired by those guardians, this imposing pair of antique Khmer‑style temple lions is modelled in the 10th‑century Banteay Srei tradition, created as “guardians of the gate” to welcome and protect all who pass.
In the Angkor period, lions of this type were placed around temple exteriors and at principal entrances, serving not merely as decoration but as potent symbols of strength, vigilance, and divine protection. Each lion here is cast fully in the round with a powerful, upright body, broad chest, and firmly planted paws that convey stability and authority. Their faces are richly expressive, with full lips, prominent jaws, and almond‑shaped eyes with incised pupils beneath gently curving brows, all framed by an ornate, swirling coiffure.
The intricate surface casting—especially around the mane, chest, and collars—evokes the refined stonework of Banteay Srei while the lush green patina recalls age, weathering, and the moss‑touched stones of Angkor itself. The casting is particularly fine, with every line and motif crisply rendered, giving the pair a striking presence from every angle.
Standing before them, one is transported back to the great Khmer temples, where such lions kept watch over sanctuaries and pilgrims alike. In their steady gaze and elaborate ornament, we feel a living connection to a cultural world that revered the divine, celebrated artistic mastery, and cherished the protective power of sacred guardians.
Traditional in form yet dramatically sculptural, this pair of temple lions will bring an atmosphere of protection, dignity, and timeless Southeast Asian character to any setting—flanking a doorway, anchoring an entry hall, or enhancing a garden, office, or meditation space. To ensure safe arrival, each lion will be carefully wood‑crated for shipping.
SATISFACTION GUARANTEE - We have been offering SE Asian Art for many years and are proud of the reputation we have developed for fair and honest listings. However, if for any reason, whatsoever, you are unhappy with your purchase please just let us know and we will provide a full refund. We want you to be 100% happy with your purchase.
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The majority of orders will be shipped with DHL. This is a secure, express and fully tracked service.
Items less than 2Kg we typically ship using Royal Mail.
Once we receive your order we try to ship all orders the same or next working day.
Large and/or fragile pieces requiring palletising, specialist crating and/or extra packaging may take a little longer. Palletised shipments will be delivered curbside.
All orders over 35 GBP will be shipped free of charge.
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We genuinely hope that all purchases delight.
However, if they do not, regardless of reason, we will refund all orders upon receipt of the unwanted item. Just notify us within 14 days of receiving your order that you wish to make a return and send the piece back to us with 30 days of delivery.
