{"product_id":"antique-burmese-style-bronze-standing-chinthe-guardian-temple-lion-36cm-14","title":"Antique Burmese Style Bronze Standing Chinthe Guardian Temple Lion - 36cm\/14\"","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAntique Burmese Style Bronze Standing Chinthe Guardian Temple Lion - 36cm\/14\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"font-semibold leading-tight text-pretty mb-2 mt-4 [[data-has-inline-images]_\u0026amp;]:clear-end text-base first:mt-0\" id=\"guardian-lion-with-raised-forepaw\"\u003eGuardian Lion with Raised Forepaw\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeasures (Height) 36cm\/14\" \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"my-2 [\u0026amp;+p]:mt-4 [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:align-top\"\u003eAn expressive antique Burmese-style bronze depicting a \u003cstrong\u003eChinthe\u003c\/strong\u003e, the stylised guardian lion associated with the pagodas and temples of Myanmar. Measuring approximately 36 cm \/ 14 inches high, this richly ornamented figure combines a commanding stance with an animated, almost heraldic silhouette.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"my-2 [\u0026amp;+p]:mt-4 [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:align-top\"\u003eThe guardian stands upon a rectangular base, its left forepaw raised and its head held high. An open mouth, prominent fangs, and sharply articulated facial features create an alert, formidable expression. The lifted paw introduces a sense of movement, as though the lion is poised to advance while remaining watchful at a sacred threshold.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"my-2 [\u0026amp;+p]:mt-4 [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:align-top\"\u003eElaborate scrolls flow across the shoulders, flanks, and haunches, while leaf- and flame-like ornaments accent the head, neck, and legs. A long, arched tail curves above the back, adding further energy to the composition. Beaded bands around the neck contrast with the broad spiral motifs decorating the body.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"my-2 [\u0026amp;+p]:mt-4 [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:align-top\"\u003eThe bronze displays a varied green and brown surface, with lighter mottling that brings depth to the cast ornament. Its intricate detailing and strong profile make it an engaging display piece, equally suited to a collection of Southeast Asian sculpture or an interior enriched by traditional decorative art.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"font-semibold leading-tight text-pretty mb-2 mt-4 [[data-has-inline-images]_\u0026amp;]:clear-end text-lg first:mt-0 md:text-lg [hr+\u0026amp;]:mt-4\" id=\"the-chinthe-guardian-of-sacred-spaces\"\u003eThe Chinthe: Guardian of Sacred Spaces\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"my-2 [\u0026amp;+p]:mt-4 [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:align-top\"\u003eChinthe figures are among the most recognisable guardians in Burmese Buddhist architecture. Frequently placed in pairs at the entrances to pagodas and temples, these imposing lions mark the passage into a sacred space and embody the protective role of the temple guardian. Their distinctive appearance draws upon Burmese mythology and local artistic traditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"my-2 [\u0026amp;+p]:mt-4 [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:align-top\"\u003eAlthough their elaborate ornament can suggest a dragon or composite creature, Chinthe are principally understood as stylised lions. Their formidable faces express vigilance and strength rather than hostility toward worshippers: they stand as guardians of the sanctuary and its approach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"my-2 [\u0026amp;+p]:mt-4 [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:align-top\"\u003eThis sculpture evokes that tradition in a compact bronze form. Its raised forepaw, upright head, and curling tail give physical expression to readiness, while the dense ornament transforms the lion from a naturalistic animal into a ceremonial guardian.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"font-semibold leading-tight text-pretty mb-2 mt-4 [[data-has-inline-images]_\u0026amp;]:clear-end text-lg first:mt-0 md:text-lg [hr+\u0026amp;]:mt-4\" id=\"key-features\"\u003eKey Features\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"marker:text-secondary list-disc pl-8\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:pt-0 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:mb-2 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:my-0\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"my-2 [\u0026amp;+p]:mt-4 [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:align-top\"\u003eAntique Burmese-style bronze Chinthe, or guardian lion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:pt-0 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:mb-2 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:my-0\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"my-2 [\u0026amp;+p]:mt-4 [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:align-top\"\u003eHeight approximately 36 cm \/ 14 inches.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:pt-0 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:mb-2 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:my-0\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"my-2 [\u0026amp;+p]:mt-4 [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:align-top\"\u003eDynamic standing pose with the left forepaw raised.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:pt-0 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:mb-2 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:my-0\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"my-2 [\u0026amp;+p]:mt-4 [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:align-top\"\u003eAlert head with an open mouth and prominent fangs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:pt-0 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:mb-2 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:my-0\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"my-2 [\u0026amp;+p]:mt-4 [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:align-top\"\u003eElaborate scrollwork across the shoulders, body, and haunches.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:pt-0 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:mb-2 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:my-0\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"my-2 [\u0026amp;+p]:mt-4 [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:align-top\"\u003eLeaf- and flame-like ornament framing the head, neck, and legs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:pt-0 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:mb-2 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:my-0\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"my-2 [\u0026amp;+p]:mt-4 [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:align-top\"\u003eDecorative beaded bands around the neck.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:pt-0 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:mb-2 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:my-0\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"my-2 [\u0026amp;+p]:mt-4 [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:align-top\"\u003eLong, arched tail creating a distinctive silhouette.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:pt-0 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:mb-2 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:my-0\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"my-2 [\u0026amp;+p]:mt-4 [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:align-top\"\u003eRectangular display base.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:pt-0 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:mb-2 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:my-0\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"my-2 [\u0026amp;+p]:mt-4 [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:align-top\"\u003eVaried green and brown patination with lighter surface mottling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:pt-0 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:mb-2 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:my-0\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"my-2 [\u0026amp;+p]:mt-4 [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:align-top\"\u003eInspired by the guardian lions traditionally placed at Burmese temple and pagoda entrances.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"py-0 my-0 prose-p:pt-0 prose-p:mb-2 prose-p:my-0 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:pt-0 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:mb-2 [\u0026amp;\u0026gt;p]:my-0\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"my-2 [\u0026amp;+p]:mt-4 [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:align-top\"\u003eA striking focal point for a home, office, or collection of Southeast Asian art.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"font-semibold leading-tight text-pretty mb-2 mt-4 [[data-has-inline-images]_\u0026amp;]:clear-end text-lg first:mt-0 md:text-lg [hr+\u0026amp;]:mt-4\" id=\"faqs\"\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"font-semibold leading-tight text-pretty mb-2 mt-4 [[data-has-inline-images]_\u0026amp;]:clear-end text-base first:mt-0\" id=\"what-is-a-chinthe\"\u003eWhat is a Chinthe?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"my-2 [\u0026amp;+p]:mt-4 [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:align-top\"\u003eA Chinthe is a highly stylised Burmese lion, familiar as a guardian at the entrances of Buddhist pagodas, temples, and monasteries. Larger architectural examples often stand in pairs, while smaller versions are made in materials including bronze and wood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"font-semibold leading-tight text-pretty mb-2 mt-4 [[data-has-inline-images]_\u0026amp;]:clear-end text-base first:mt-0\" id=\"what-does-the-chinthe-symbolise\"\u003eWhat does the Chinthe symbolise?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"my-2 [\u0026amp;+p]:mt-4 [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:align-top\"\u003eIts principal role is guardianship. The lion’s imposing presence expresses strength, vigilance, and protection, reinforcing the distinction between the sacred precinct and the world outside.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"my-2 [\u0026amp;+p]:mt-4 [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:align-top\"\u003eFor a modern display, the sculpture can be appreciated as an emblem of courage and watchfulness without implying a guaranteed supernatural effect.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"font-semibold leading-tight text-pretty mb-2 mt-4 [[data-has-inline-images]_\u0026amp;]:clear-end text-base first:mt-0\" id=\"is-this-a-lion-or-a-dragon\"\u003eIs this a lion or a dragon?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"my-2 [\u0026amp;+p]:mt-4 [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:align-top\"\u003eIt is best described as a stylised guardian lion. The flame-like ornament, sweeping tail, and elaborate head treatment can create a dragon-like appearance, but these decorative features are compatible with Burmese Chinthe imagery. The Philadelphia Museum of Art notes that such lions are sometimes mistaken for dragons or hybrid creatures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"font-semibold leading-tight text-pretty mb-2 mt-4 [[data-has-inline-images]_\u0026amp;]:clear-end text-base first:mt-0\" id=\"what-does-the-raised-right-forepaw-mean\"\u003eWhat does the raised left forepaw mean?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"my-2 [\u0026amp;+p]:mt-4 [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:align-top\"\u003eThe raised paw gives the figure an animated, alert stance. In this sculpture it suggests readiness and controlled movement, contrasting with the firmly planted supporting legs. Offering protection to the devotee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"font-semibold leading-tight text-pretty mb-2 mt-4 [[data-has-inline-images]_\u0026amp;]:clear-end text-base first:mt-0\" id=\"are-chinthe-the-same-as-chinese-foo-dogs\"\u003eAre Chinthe the same as Chinese “Foo Dogs”?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"my-2 [\u0026amp;+p]:mt-4 [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:align-top\"\u003eThey share the broader Asian tradition of protective lion imagery, but they are not interchangeable. Chinthe have a distinctly Burmese identity and visual character. “Foo dog” is a popular term for Chinese guardian lions; it is less appropriate for cataloguing this sculpture. Museum descriptions recognise a similar protective function across Burmese, Chinese, and Japanese guardian-lion traditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"font-semibold leading-tight text-pretty mb-2 mt-4 [[data-has-inline-images]_\u0026amp;]:clear-end text-base first:mt-0\" id=\"does-a-chinthe-need-to-be-displayed-as-a-pair\"\u003eDoes a Chinthe need to be displayed as a pair?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"my-2 [\u0026amp;+p]:mt-4 [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:align-top\"\u003ePairs are customary at many temple entrances, where they frame the approach to the sanctuary. A single sculpture can nevertheless be displayed independently and appreciated for its form, ornament, and cultural associations. There is no need to invent an original companion for this piece.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"font-semibold leading-tight text-pretty mb-2 mt-4 [[data-has-inline-images]_\u0026amp;]:clear-end text-base first:mt-0\" id=\"how-should-it-be-displayed\"\u003eHow should it be displayed?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"my-2 [\u0026amp;+p]:mt-4 [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [\u0026amp;_strong:has(+br)]:align-top\"\u003eAllow enough space around the raised paw, head ornament, and arched tail to appreciate the silhouette without exposing these projections to accidental contact. When moving the sculpture, support the base and substantial body rather than lifting it by the paw, tail, or decorative points.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSATISFACTION 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. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"HD Asian Art","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":62801747837315,"sku":"SCBR4304b","price":795.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0283\/4769\/5207\/files\/SCBR4304b-3_6860945b-8217-4f92-bd4b-f34ea8a57119.jpg?v=1791764604","url":"https:\/\/www.hdasianart.com\/products\/antique-burmese-style-bronze-standing-chinthe-guardian-temple-lion-36cm-14","provider":"HD Asian Art","version":"1.0","type":"link"}