Lot 72
East Asia, China, Tang Dynasty, ca. 618 to 907 CE. A wonderful pair of Buddhist foo lions or foo dogs (also "fu" lion or "fu" dog) carved from granite, each one sitting upon an integral plinth, these stylized lion guardians traditionally protected the entrances to sacred buildings or homes against evil spirits or people. Both foo lions rest upon their haunches with an alert and lively expressions on their turned heads, the visages comprised of bulging eyes and open mouths that reveal a curved fang at each corner. Their bodies are meticulously rendered with a curly mane and a finely incised coat with collars around their necks. The cost to carve these from a hard stone such as this granite would have been considerable, and these were likely owned or commissioned by a wealthy family. Size: 11" L x 9" W x 17" H (27.9 cm x 22.9 cm x 43.2 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 Hawaii, USA collection, before 2010; ex M. Kobiashi collection, Hawaii, USA, 1960-2000
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#173462
- Condition: No repairs or restoration. Surface wear and abrasions commensurate with age and exposure to elements. Chips and nicks to high pointed areas and light surface weathering. Overall excellent condition with beautiful white veining in the stone.
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