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Man Subduing Lion/"Hero and Lion" Silk (DO BZ.1934.1)

39447
By Christopher Smith '22
 



The textile depicts a man repeatedly subduing a lion. The well-known strength of lions suggests that this man, dressed in a classical short toga and sandals, must be even stronger. His long hair and action of tearing open the lion's jaws suggest that he may represent the Old Testament figure Samson. Being a religious figure from the Old Testament, people from Jewish, Christian, and Muslim faiths could have appreciated him, making this textile a valuable item and highly sought after during the Crusades. Viewers might also understand him to be another strong man who fought a lion, like Hercules. Regardless of the man's identity, he represents sheer physical strength and the domination of enemies.

 

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