The Yuan developed vigorous depictions of pacing and ofte winged felines, which were placed in pairs to guard the sacred ways to the roya tombs--a widespread practice during the preceding Sung dynasty as well.
In this relief, a lion is pictured crouching over an embroidered bal clenching in its mouth a long twine that is tangled beneath its feet.
The lion is not an indigenous animal to China, but it was introduce later in connection with Buddhism, figuring as the defender of law and protecto of buildings. It is an emblem o valor and energy that were considered essential to the cultivation of wisdom.



The Chinese lion, despite its big eyes and fierc countenance, is not treated as the supreme predatory animal--a position, rather,
held by the tiger which flourishes in the northern hinterland and evokes fear i the hearts and imagination of Chinese people.
Instead, the lion is often represented as a mythical beast playing with ball or sacred gem amidst peony flowers and flexing its beautifully curled mane.
This particular representation seems to blend mythical and playfu characteristics, creating a scene that is not only awe-inspiring but informativ of the animal innocent yet righteous nature.