The phrase "golden lion" might evoke images of a majestic animal with shimmering fur, but there are plenty of synonyms that can add variety and specificity to this image. For example, you could use the term "gilded lion" to emphasize the luxuriousness of the creature, or "brass lion" to suggest a more industrial, sturdy quality. Other options might include "amber lion" for a warm, glowing hue, "topaz lion" for a specific shade of golden brown, or "saffron lion" to evoke a rich, spicy color. Ultimately, your choice of synonym will depend on the context and tone of your writing, and the specific image you want to convey to your readers.