The Lion and Mouse, Eastland Center, Detroit 1963

This authentic 1960s color photograph, captured in 1963, features the beloved The Lion and Mouse sculpture at Eastland Center in Harper Woods, near Detroit, Michigan. The archival image highlights the whimsical limestone work by renowned sculptor Marshall Fredericks, depicting a massive, stylized lion with a circular, patterned mane reclining while a tiny mouse (positioned near the lion’s paw) interacts with him. The sculpture is situated in one of the mall’s serene open-air “garden courts,” surrounded by brick-bordered planters, mature shade trees, and classic slatted wooden benches. In the background, the storefront for United Shirt Distributors and other mid-century retailers are partially visible through the lush greenery. Commissioned by architect Victor Gruen, Fredericks’ play-friendly sculptures were designed to make the shopping experience more engaging for families. While Eastland Center was demolished in 2022 to make way for a modern industrial and logistics park, the The Lion and Mouse was carefully preserved and relocated to the Harper Woods Public Library alongside the Hippo sculpture. This factual record preserves the artistic charm and community-focused atmosphere of the early Detroit suburban shopping era. All our images are available as royalty-free instant downloads for use in books, media, and creative projects – or make your own prints for home, work, or as a truly unique gift.