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The product is a pair of vintage white-glazed ceramic Foo Dogs, also known as Guardian Lions or Shi Shi. These statues are a traditional symbol of Chinese culture and are often found in Chinese temples or as decorative pieces.
Dimensions: 7" High x 10" Long x 5" Wide
This pair of vintage white-glazed ceramic Foo Dogs (Guardian Lions / Shi Shi) features a distinctive standing posture and expressive facial details.
Identification & Characteristics
Traditional Pairing: The set consists of a traditional male and female pair.
The male holds his paw over a pierced decorative sphere (temple ball or embroidered ball), symbolizing domain control and power.
The female holds a playing cub under her paw, representing nurturation and protection.
Styling & Origin: Made from glazed ceramic/earthenware (Blanc de Chine style finish). Unlike traditional seated Fu dogs on square pedestals, these feature four-legged standing poses with drooping ears and wide open mouths. This stylistic variation is common in mid-to-late 20th-century Chinese Export and Japanese ceramics (such as mid-century production by Otagiri or Wai Ming).
Foo Dogs are believed to ward off evil spirits and bring protection and prosperity to the home or temple in which they are placed. The white glaze adds a touch of elegance to the statues, making them a desirable collectible for those interested in Chinese culture and figurines.
