THE LION OF VENICE ROARS.

  • Published In: Archaeology, 2026, v. 79, n. 1. P. 9 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: URBANUS, JASON 3 of 3

Abstract

The article focuses on the origins of the Lion of Venice, a prominent bronze winged lion statue in St. Mark's Square, which has been a symbol of the city for centuries. Recent research led by archaeologist Massimo Vidale suggests that the statue may have originated from China, specifically resembling Tang Dynasty tomb guardians known as zhenmushou. Analysis of the statue's materials indicates that the copper used in its construction matches sources from China's Lower Yangtze River Basin. The article posits that the statue could have been brought to Venice by Niccolò and Maffeo Polo during their travels to the court of Kublai Khan, and its transformation into a Christian symbol may have been kept secret to avoid conflict with papal authorities. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Archaeology. 2026/01, Vol. 79, Issue 1, p9
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:History
  • Publication Date:2026
  • ISSN:0003-8113
  • Accession Number:189349950
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