Chinese Figure of Lion and Monkey

A paw on the monkey's head, gently, for now.

Made in China in the 20th century, this marble figure of a lion and monkey sets a large cat over a small companion. Families and temples in China placed carved stone lions at their entrances, as protectors against harm and as a sign of standing. One forepaw rests on the monkey's crown, and a long tongue hangs down to meet it. Round staring eyes sit above a bared row of teeth, and the mane falls in long ridges. The monkey crouches below, knees up. Thirty-six inches high and thirty-four deep.

The monkey has made its peace with the arrangement.