ANIMALS AS SYMBOLS

People have believed in the different meanings of animals for thousands of years, with animals serving as symbols for different things Some have been worshipped as gods, others as good luck charms

Ancient societies passed down legends, stories, and songs about animals Archaeologists have discovered animal figurines buried in tombs around the world, as well as charms that contain bits of feather, fur, claws and teeth Medieval heraldry adopted animal symbolism on family crests to show the values of a family or clan Some old houses have been found to contain mummified cats in the walls, or ox hearts above the door, charms to protect the home from evil spirits

Here are some symbolic animals from our collection:

Stone lions or shishi ( ⽯ 獅 ; shíshī) are common across Asia, where they were thought to protect buildings and people from harmful spirits and people Usually they are a pair, a male and a female They are sometimes known in English as lion dogs or foo (fu) dogs, but they aren’t really dogs at all

The Garuda is a large bird-like creature appearing in both Hindu and Buddhist mythology In India, Indonesia and the rest of Southeast Asia the Garuda is shown with eagle-like features and is the vahana (vehicle) of the god Vishnu It is the national emblem of Thailand and Indonesia.

To the Romans the Eagle symbolised strength, farsightedness, and immortality It was considered to be the king of the air and the messenger of the highest gods In Chinese mythology eagles were also used to symbolize strength Eagle tail feathers were considered a potent charm.

Native Americans consider the bald eagle and the golden eagle to be sacred. Because s are the highest flying birds, they were o be nearer to the Creator da, only people of certified Native descent who are part of a recognised tribe have the legal right to acquire eagle wings. Anyone not of Native descent found to be in possession of an eagle feather (even if they found it on the ground) or any part of an eagle can face a fine of $250,000!