Indian Double Lion Planter

The stone is veined like a good cheese. The lions do not find this funny.

Made in India in the 20th century, this double lion planter is carved from marble. Stone basins and planters have a long history in Indian courtyards and gardens, where water and greenery were arranged with some care. The two beasts lie with hindquarters touching, heads turned outward, manes falling in long ribbed locks. Their tails loop up and meet at the middle. Above them rests a wavy-edged basin. Warm pinkish veins run through the stone, with a greenish streak along the plinth. It measures 40 inches wide and 15 deep.

They have been told to stay. So far nobody has argued.