One of the national symbols of India is the Lion Capital. This lion emblem that represents India is based on an image of a lion’s head found at Sarnath. It is known as the ‘Lion capital of Ashoka’ and it is a set of animals carved in stone.
In total, the sculpture features four lions, all executed in the Asiatic style. Asiatic lions are typically magnificent and elaborate with flowing manes and expressions that speak volumes and that were probably modeled on human expressions.
The Lion capital of Ashoka was initially part of a grand pillar out in the open. Now, however, it is held in a museum in Sarnath. The Asiatic lions featured in this sculpture were so inspiring to behold that in 1950 they were adopted as one of India’s national animals. India has several animal emblems that represent it nationally. Another example is the peacock.
Laura