Two pairs of Foo dogs. China, 20th century.
Hand-polychromed porcelain.
Numbered on the reverse.
Measurements: 32 x 12 x 8 cm (the larger one); 26 x 9 x 6.5 cm (the smaller one).
The foo dog, similar to a lion, is an important symbol in Chinese Taoist culture and, due to its influence, also in Japanese and Thai culture. It is identified with protection against evil spirits, and hence they are often depicted in pairs at the entrance of temples, imperial tombs, palaces, government buildings, etc. They are also known as Imperial Guardians, and were very common in traditional Chinese art. They are attributed with mythical powers of protection, and appear as early as the Han Dynasty (206 BC - 220 AD) at the entrance of important buildings. Today, foo dogs are still frequent as decoration and symbolic elements at the entrance of all kinds of buildings, from hotels to supermarkets. In fact, foo dogs can be found both in China and in other countries with a Chinese emigrant population.