Inspired by the gold applique in the form of a lion’s head from Achaemenid dynasty. Lions, symbolizing strength and raw power, were a popular feature of Achaemenid art, especially royal iconography. Indeed, very similar renderings of lions’ heads appear on glazed bricks excavated at the Persian capital city of Susa.
Closer to home, Durga, the ten-armed warrior goddess, is always depicted riding either a lion or a tiger. Particularly since lions and tigers have long been associated with kingship, power and nobility across Asia, including India. Indeed, the two big cats represent royalty, ferocity, strength, courage and commanding power.
