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Antoine-Louis Barye (Paris, 1795-1875)
Lion and Serpent
1835
© Musée du Louvre/P. Philibert |
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D'après Geneviève Bresc-Bautier, responsable scientifique et rédactrice,
Christine Vivet Peclet, département des sculptures, Mériam Ben Sassi, rédactrice. |
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Opening days: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday
Duration: 1 hr. 30 mins.
  
Artists have always admired the king of the jungle for his magnificence and strength. In biblical and mythological stories, both mortals and heroes test their strength against the lion. This trail is designed to follow its tracks through the history of art. Ready for a lion hunt?
The lion is a regal animal that radiates strength and power. Images of the lion have traversed the centuries. In some Bible stories and mythological tales, its role is to demonstrate the superiority of God (or the gods): when a human being is given divine power, he can overcome a lion. The lion was a creature of legend in medieval times. As a symbol of divine superiority and an allegory of strength, it was considered an ideal guardian for the eternal sleep of the dead, which is why a lion is often to be seen near a tomb. But lions can also be savage creatures and fearsome enemies, so some sculptures show them attacking other animals or people. By exploring the decorative and symbolic use of the lion in sculpture, you will discover a whole range of artistic styles: Roman, Gothic, Renaissance, Mannerist, classical, baroque, and Romantic.
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The hunt begins in the Hall Napoléon. Head toward the Richelieu wing. Turn left then right into the Cour Marly, climb the stairs to the terrace, and turn left. On the landing, go into Room 1 (on your right) to see some medieval sculptures.
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