also: からしし
noun
mythical Chinese lion; Chinese guardian lion
Refers to the mythical lion-like creature in Chinese tradition, often seen as a guardian statue. Compare with 獅子 (しし), which can refer to a lion in general or the specific mythical beast.
See also: 獅子
神社の入り口に唐獅子の像が置かれている。
A statue of a Chinese guardian lion is placed at the entrance of the shrine.
noun
artistic depiction of a lion; Chinese-style lion figure
Used for artistic representations of lions in a Chinese style, such as in paintings, textiles, or carvings. Not a living animal, but a stylized motif.
この着物には唐獅子の模様が織り込まれている。
This kimono has a pattern of Chinese-style lions woven into it.
獅子 is a broader term that can mean 'lion' (the animal) or refer to the mythical lion-like creature. 唐獅子 specifically emphasizes the Chinese origin or style of the lion figure.
唐 (とう, Tang/China) + 獅子 (しし, lion). Refers to the lion imagery that came to Japan via China, often associated with Buddhist guardian figures.