2nd-3rd century AD. A carved schist frieze fragment with an advancing lion ridden by a bearded figure in pleated trousers, attended by three robed figures and a child behind, tree before the lion and a balustered column behind; mounted on a custom-made stand. See van der Geer, A., Animals in Stone: Indian Mammals Sculptured Through Time, Leiden, 2008. 72.2 kg total, 84cm wide including stand (33"). Property of a North London gentleman; previously in a private collection formed in the 1990s. The identity of the lion-riding figure has been the subject of debate (van der Geer, p.346"). Some scholars favour identification with the Greek god Dionysus who occasionally appears riding a lion; a link to the Roman celebrations of Bacchanalia has also been proposed.