ABC

Lion throne

Symbols and art

In many cultures, the lion ranks as the king of the animal world, hence its recurrent status as a symbol of kings and royalty. The lion throne is a very old royal emblem and was common in ancient Egypt as well as in Mesopotamia. The image of the king seated on a throne embellished with lions probably originated there and eventually reached India. In Buddhist art, the Buddha is often shown seated on a lion throne.