Sergey Brin at the 2026 Met Gala: Iranian Flag Symbolism, Lion and Sun Meaning, and Global Attention

Deep Dive: The Lion and Sun Symbol in Persian History

To fully understand why Sergey Brin wearing the Lion and Sun emblem at the Met Gala resonated globally, you have to go much deeper into the origins of this symbol.

The Lion and Sun motif predates modern Iran by centuries. Its origins are tied to:

• Astrology: The sun in the zodiac sign of Leo
• Mythology: The lion as a symbol of kingship and strength
• Royal imagery: Used by Persian rulers to legitimize power

During the Safavid dynasty (1501–1736), the symbol became more standardized and widely used in state iconography. Later, under the Qajar dynasty, it evolved into a national emblem.