Helen Burton’s “Lion’s of Lucerne”
July 16, 2009
Lion at Lucerne Cave
Calling all Leos to a special exhibit of their astrological sign for August. In-Town Gallery
artist Helen Burton presents her collection of lion images that she has photographed during her travels in Europe. From door-knockers to ancient stone figures, each one is a unique interpretation of the royal beast. Gallery visitors of every sign can meet the artist and discuss these symbols at a reception on the First Friday, August 7, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
The central focus of the exhibit is the “Lion of Lucerne”, a memorial to the bravery of Swiss soldiers who fell in battle on August 10, 1792. The dying lion is carved out of a natural rock wall, with the inscription “HELVETIORUM FEDEI AC VIRTUTI” overhead. It translates “To the Loyalty and Courage of the Swiss”. The artist has chosen this emotional scene as the subject of her watercolor painting.
The fifth sign of the zodiac ( July 23 to August 22 ) is known as the royal sign and symbolizes exuberance, leadership, courage, personal honesty, authority and responsibility. It is a traditional element in heraldry – the coat of arms of royalty and world leaders. The lion is most frequently shown in pairs, with the “rampant” position – standing on hind legs, facing right and left toward the center of a shield.
“Collecting lions has become a fascinating hobby that developed during my travels. Capturing them with my camera has been like a treasure hunt for me. Spotting them in unusual places like a sewer cover on a cobbled street, or expected places like the entrance to a grand palace, or gracing a fountain in the park, has made my visit to each country more fun. Each image represents the skills and personal interpretation of the artist. Many are bronze castings of a lion’s head, fitted with a large ring to serve as a door knocker. Ornately carved wood doors are the framework for intricately detailed lion faces that express almost human emotions, from haughty pride to fierce anger. “
