Anthony Short Antiques Ltd

Description

A large pair of unique and very decorative 20th century ceramic Imperial Guardian Lions, commonly known as Foo Dogs. Decorated in the Majolica style bright green and yellow toned overglaze polychrome ceramic. Both items in traditional dress and modelled with open mouths and seated, one with the paw resting on a small pup, the other with the paw resting on a ball, both mounted on rectangular pedestals with pierced geometric design. These lion dogs or Foo dogs are an architectural ornament used as symbols of protection and social status. For thousands of years, these Foo Dogs have been placed at the entrances of palaces, government buildings and the homes of the elite, to stand guard and protect whilst also displaying wealth and power. The most favourable positioning, according to Feng-Shui, sees the female (with the pup) on the left and the male (with the ball) on the right. Both sculptures are offered in great shape, ready for home use right away.

Height: 110cm (43.3in)
Width: 42cm (16.5in)
Depth: 53cm (20.9in)