Antique Early 20th Century Yali Gilt Wood South India Indian Simha Lion Statue Wall

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Simha Yali: The Fierce Protector
Approximate Dimensions: H 28 x W 8 x D 5-1/2 inches
Hardware at back, added … Read more Simha Yali: The Fierce Protector
Approximate Dimensions: H 28 x W 8 x D 5-1/2 inches
Hardware at back, added recently to be hung on a wall.

This is a hand carved gilt wood ferocious creature with the head of a lion and is depicted standing on the head of an evil demon. One of the most recognisable forms, the Simha Yali is the protector of the temple. It is also one of the motifs woven onto the kanjivaram drape, lending protection to the wearer. (Refer several of the Nandaimo silk collection currently listed). The exquisite and fierce beauty of the yali—a mythical creature, a beloved motif of the kanjivaram, and a powerful symbol of protection.
The yali, also called vyala, is a ubiquitous motif in the medieval temples of India, particularly in the South. Some early appearances date back to the Pallava dynasty—in the rock caves and monolithic structures of Mamallapuram, and the temples of Kanchipuram. In the world famous Meenakshi Amman Temple of Madurai, the thousand-pillar hall is richly carved with yalis.
The traditional arts of South India, from architecture and sculpture to textile and painting, are extraordinarily rich in symbolism. The ornamentation within each of these artistic creations is never coincidental, and rarely a purely aesthetic effort. In fact, the representation of a pattern or a motif almost always has a two-fold function—decorative and symbolic. And the symbolism runs deep: drawing on ancient forms and sacred meanings.
The yali defines spaces, carved into pillars and marking entryways, where it acts as a ferocious guard, protecting the temple from threats, both real and imagined.
The yali, most commonly depicted with the graceful, cat-like body of a lion, the head of a horse and tusks of an elephant, is a composite leonine creature, considered more powerful than a lion or elephant. It is the personification of natural forces, stylistically rendered in art, architecture and textile. It resembles the hippogryph and sphinx of ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt. Its European counterparts are fantastic medieval creatures such as the griffin with the head and wings of an eagle, and the body and tail of a lion. Like these other divine creatures of myth, the yali is a symbol of strength and vigilance.
In its iconography, the yali takes on numerous forms and personalities. Often depicted on a floral pedestal in temple architecture, it is rendered in dynamic detail—galloping, swirling, prancing, or poised to leap in attack. Depicted with the heads and bodies of different animals and in different positions, the varied portrayals of the yali range from the terrifying to the more whimsical.

Style Tip: Incorporate this exquisitely handcrafted antique in a rich gilt finish and with a timeless quality into a range of contemporary styles. See less