This lion π³πΉπΏπ statue is from the 4th Dynasty, which means it even pre-dates the Pyramids ππ ππ΄πͺ at Giza!
This lion π³πΉπΏπ most likely guarded the entrance to some type of sanctuary or temple πππ. Even early on in ancient Egypt ππ ππ, lions π³πΉπΏππͺ were seen as representative of royalty due to the fact that they were the most powerful predator in the vicinity of the Nile Valley π! This statue is actually the oldest preserved example of a full lion π³πΉπΏπ that archaeologists have found!
When you enter the Egyptian Galleries at theΒ MET,Β this statue is actually one of the first things that you see!!