Originally called Tiger Balm Gardens, Haw Par Villa was built on Pasir Panjang Road in 1937 by Aw Boon Haw, who set up an entertainment and educational park on the site, erecting statues and tableaux portraying anecdotes from Chinese legends and folklore. This exhibit, depicting a lion dance, is a typical example. Traditionally, lion dances are welcomed by the Chinese community in Singapore as they are associated with joyous festivities and good fortune. They are a common sight during auspicious occasions such as Chinese New Year as well as at the inauguration of new business premises.
