Set of two Chinese temple lions (foo dogs) - wood - 18th-19th century - with Jian Ding export seal

Description

Powerful protectors for your collection: rare set of Chinese temple lions (foo dogs) with impressive appearance and original polychromy.

This sentinels of happiness and protection are carved from wood and still show clear traces of red, blue and gold paint - remnants of their original temple polychromy. The broad heads with curling manes, expressive moustaches and saddle-shaped panels along the flanks give the statues a monumental presence. Their tails are originally detachable - a characteristic construction detail in this type of temple sculpture. Beautiful, weathered patina with natural drought cracks appropriate for the 18th-19th century.

Origin & meaning
Foo dogs (shishi) traditionally stood at temples and palaces as protectors. This set carries the official Jian Ding (鑑定) export seal From the Chinese state: certified as manufactured before 1949. The seal type was used around 1997 for objects legally allowed to leave the country. The combination of tough carving, original polychromy, protective symbolism and documented export makes this pair exceptionally attractive to connoisseurs of Chinese temple art.

Dimensions per piece
Length 62 cm × depth 20 cm; height approx. 35 cm and 39 cm.