Chinese Lion (Shishi)

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The exaggerated features of the humorous-looking shishi (guardian lion) contribute to this netsuke’s devilish charm and are indicative of its early date.

Asian Art

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Met's collection of Asian art—more than 35,000 objects, ranging in date from the third millennium B.C. to the twenty-first century—is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the world. Each of the many civilizations of Asia is represented by outstanding works, providing an unrivaled experience of the artistic traditions of nearly half the world.

Metropolitan Museum of Art