doi:10.7916/d8-dvej-9449Lion with PeonyUtagawa, Toyokuni, 1769-1825printsstill imageLions and peonies are often paired and represent a popular motif in Japanese art. Imported from China, the lion and the peony stand for balancing power and beauty. The auspicious lions-and-peonies motif is featured in Japanese art in a wide range of media, from paintings and prints to netsuke carvings and clothing accessories.