Pair of lions 19th century

These small ceramic lions were made in the 19th century by the American artist Mary Atwood. Atwood lived and worked during a time when women artists were often confined to decorative arts. While lions traditionally symbolize strength and power, particularly in association with male figures and dominance, here, these lions take on a different tone. They are domestic in scale, intimate, and crafted by a woman. This shift challenges the traditional masculine symbolism often associated with the lion, infusing it with a softer, more personal narrative. The copper luster glaze adds to their warmth, as though they are protectors of the domestic space. These sculptures prompt us to consider how gender influences the creation and interpretation of art, and how familiar symbols can be reshaped through an artist's perspective and experience.