African Lion — public sculpture on the Waco Sculpture Zoo trail

African Lion is comprised of steel and sculpted, pigmented concrete. It is 100” long, and 83” tall and weighs 1076 pounds! Like all Faducci’s sculptures, notice how the artist captures real personality in this animal. Lions have a strong tradition in western art as heraldic symbols of power, strength and royalty. Why do you think humans see these qualities in a lion? What characteristics do you see in this particular lion? What animal would you choose to represent your personality?

Did You Know?

  • Lions live in social prides.
  • Males have distinctive manes.
  • They are apex predators.
  • Cubs are born with spots that fade.
  • Roars can be heard for miles.

About the artist

Artists Solomon Bassoff and Domenica Mottarella work together in sculpted, pigmented concrete which they sculpt by hand like clay. They then add steel, tile mosaic, glass and other materials to create unique and whimsical animal characters that are designed to invite exploration and curiosity. They like to convey animals’ emotional characteristics to create a connection between the human and animal world with their unique blend of naturalism and realism. Together, Bassoff and Mottarella run Faducci Studio, located in the foothills of the California Sierra Nevada. They have created much-loved public artworks In California, Washington, Oklahoma, and Texas. Keep a look out for them, as they are very recognizable. These artworks always look like they are about to tell you a story.