Winged Lions and Peacocks

East Gate of Stupa #1, Sanchi

Detail showing the carving of winged lions and peacocks. Both these animals have royal associations, and hence are suitable for Buddha as well as Ashoka whose procession is depicted on the architrave. Above the lions is a scene of worshipers venerating the dharmachakra (Wheel of Law, symbolic of Buddha's teaching). Below the lions is another nandipada standard, like the one seen on the previous page.