The Lion of Judah” Addis Adaba, Ethiopia , represents Emperor Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia

Public Art: Lion of Judah statue, Addis Adaba, Ethiopia

Sculptor: © Maurice Calka (1921 Poland – 1999 Paris, France)

Description: The 10m high carved black-stone and brick monument was erected to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of Emperor Haile Selassie. It is a modern interpretation of the original statue of Lion of Judah.

Date Unveiled: 1955

Location: Calka’s Lion of Judah stands outside the National Theater on the western side of the Unity Square, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

History Behind Calka’s Lion of Judah: The monument was commissioned by Emperor Haile Selassie, who saw this as an opportunity to reflect Africa’s move forward into modern times. Henry Shomet, the Architect of the Addis Ababa City Hall, was instrumental in recommending sculptor Maurice Calka as his work reflected radical modernity.

The symbol of the monument became a logo of the former Ethiopian Tourism Commission and today is still used by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Background of the Lion of Judah :

The Lion of Judah is a symbol of the Israelite tribe of Judah in the Book of Genesis. In Christian tradition, the Lion represents Jesus.  Jesus was from the tribe of Judah. He is also mentioned as the Lion of Judah in the Book of Revelation  (Rev 5:5). Judah, son of Jacob the Israelite, was the ancestor of King David, and of Mary, the Mother of Jesus.

In Rastafari, “The Lion of Judah” represents Emperor Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia. Selassie was crowned on November 2nd, 1930 with the titles King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Conquering Lion of the Tribe of Judah, Elect of God and Power of the Trinity. Rastas believe that Selassie is a direct descendant of the Israelite Tribe of Judah through the lineage of King David and Solomon and that he is also the Lion of Judah mentioned in the Book of Revelation.