A Stunning & Rare Griffioen Statue 1-3 AD . Old Age Patina The griffin is a mythical creature (Latin: gryphus) known since Roman times. It was often depicted with the body of a lion and the head and wings of an eagle. It symbolized dominion over land and air, the guardianship of gold, and was associated with gods such as Nemesis. Romans used the animal decoratively and in art, though it was sometimes also seen as a bloodthirsty creature. Later, in the Middle Ages, the animal also acquired Christian meanings, but the Roman connection demonstrates the creature's long history in Western culture, including in contemporary literature and symbolism. Height : 23.8 mm Wide : 19.9 mm Weight : 10.79 Grams Material : Bronze See images for own impression . Own private collection inherited from Grandfather, who built the collection in the 1960's "