Unknown Maker, Etruscan

Though in fragmentary condition, this lion’s head with a flame-like mane, furrowed forehead, and blazing eyes retains its original striking presence. Lions were considered guardians in the ancient world, and similar lion’s heads were commonly used as water spouts or ornamental rooftop decorations (antefixes). However, the use of this piece is rather enigmatic; the mouth lacks a hole, ruling out its function as a water spout. The border of the relief indicates that roof adornment was not its function. Parallel lions’ heads may have decorated Etruscan sarcophagi or funeral couches, though no intact examples of these have survived.