This miniature figure represents the Zhang Fei Lion, named after the youngest of the three brothers from the classic Chinese novel, Romance of the Three Kingdoms.

 

It has a black based face and black fur. Zhang Fei had a quick temper and loved to fight. Hence, the Zhang Fei Lion is also known as the “Fighting Lion.”

 

Traditionally, the lions in different coloured costumes were meant to personify historic characters from Romance of the Three Kingdoms- namely Liu Bei and his five tiger generals, Guan Yu, Zhang Fei, Zhao Yun, Huang Zhong and Ma Chao.

 

In real-life, the Black Lion is generally used by Lion Dance troupes that are just starting out.