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Lot 58A
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19th C. Chinese Huanghuali Wood Fu Lion Belt Toggle
19th C. Chinese Huanghuali Wood Fu Lion Belt Toggle
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Description:

East Asia, China, Qing Dynasty, ca. 19th century CE. A charming Chinese toggle (guajian) carved from Huanghuali wood, depicting a fu lion seated on a plinth with one paw resting on a ball. The figure features a raised tail, textured fur, and brass studs embellishing the eyes and limbs. This "foo dog" has a smooth surface from use, and would have functioned as a counterweight for a tobacco pouch or other item suspended from a belt. Although the Japanese netsuke, used to secure cords for inro, is more well-known, it was likely inspired by Chinese bel t toggles (zhuizi or guajian), which served a similar purpose in traditional Chinese dress. This wood carving is distinctly Chinese, despite the shared cultural influences. Size: 1.2" L x 0.7" W x 1.5" H (3 cm x 1.8 cm x 3.8 cm)

Lions were introduced to Chinese courts as early as the Han dynasty; however, most artists relied on second-hand sources for descriptions, resulting in very stylized figures that were often mistaken as dogs by western viewers. These fu lions, also known as foo lions or foo dogs, are the highly stylized representations of a spiritual lion guardians that protected sacred buildings, tombs, or palaces against evil spirits or people. They are usually presented in pairs outside an entrance to protect those within, representing the male and female as well as yin. Symbolically, the male fu lion protects the outside, and the female protects the inside of the dwelling. When portrayed together the male usually plays with a ball and the female plays with a cub - here the male is portrayed.

Provenance: private Truchas, New Mexico, USA collection, acquired early 2000's

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#189289

  • Condition: Intact and excellent. Surface is smooth and polished from touch.

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October 5, 2024 9:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

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$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
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