**Originally Listed At $800**

East Asia, China, Qing Dynasty, ca. 17th to 19th century CE. A charming pair of Buddhist foo lions or foo dogs (also "fu" lion or "fu" dog) carved from granite, each one recumbent upon an integral plinth, with head turned inwards and one forepaw slightly raised. These stylized lion guardians traditionally protected the entrances to sacred buildings or homes against evil spirits or people. This opposing pair of lions look a bit more like fierce Shi Tzu dogs or pugs! Size: 8" L x 5.5" W x 11" H (20.3 cm x 14 cm x 27.9 cm)

The "foo dog" is a western name for the Chinese "shi shi", the guardian lions that protected sacred buildings against evil. Lions were brought to ancient Chinese courts as early as the Han dynasty, but most artists relied on second-hand sources for descriptions, resulting in very stylized figures, often mistaken as dogs by western viewers. The celestial lion was regarded as a powerful animal with mythical qualities relating to Buddhism and royalty. Often portrayed in a pair with a male and female creature to represent the balance between Yin and Yang.

Provenance: private Vero Beach, Florida, USA collection, acquired before 2003

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#177248

Chips and abrasions to both, and loss to tails on both. Weathering from exposure and age, with softening to details.