Chinese Jin / Tang Dynasty Stone Guardian Lion

East Asia, China, Jin to Tang Dynasty, ca. 266 to 907 CE. An impressive stone sculpture of a guardian lion, beautifully carved to be shown reclining on an integral plinth. Carved from encrusted blue stone that now appears a hue of sandy beige, the fierce animal displays an alert and lively expression, opening his large mouth to show an extending tongue and sharp teeth. A single sphere, perhaps intended as an embroidered ball, is beneath his rear left paw, as a flowing ribbon wraps around his body. Note the carefully incised detail in the curls of his mane that drapes down his back and in his long beard. Size: 16.25" L x 8.6" W x 13.1" H (41.3 cm x 21.8 cm x 33.3 cm)

Guardian lions like this example are also known as "foo dogs;" a western name for the Chinese "shi shi." These guardian lions were believed to protect 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.

A matching stone guardian lion is also available for purchase. Please inquire if interested.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection, acquired via Thomaston Place Auction Galleries, Maine, USA (2023)

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#185267
Condition Report: Small area of loss to back proper right corner of base as well as chipping to one ear and periphery and underside of base. Light surface wear as shown with some modern touch ups to finer detail, but otherwise, mostly intact with nice presentation and heavy encrustations throughout.