Massive Chinese Ming Dynasty Stone Panel w/ Foo Dogs

East Asia, China, Ming Dynasty, ca. 1368 to 1644 CE. A beautiful hand-carved stone panel made from a massive piece of granite featuring symbolic fu lions! The front side is carved with two fu lions, or "foo dogs" in relief. In their mouths are swirling shapes, which may represent the strands of an endless knot; the endless or eternal knot is an auspicious sign of wisdom and interconnectedness. The fu lion is a highly stylized representation of a spiritual lion guardian that protected sacred buildings, tombs, or palaces against evil spirits or people. Lions were introduced to Chinese courts as early as the Han dynasty; however, interestingly, most artists relied on second-hand sources for descriptions, resulting in very stylized figures that were often mistaken as dogs by western viewers. A well-preserved carving, replete with layers of symbolism! Size: 31.75" L x 2.5" W x 17" H (80.6 cm x 6.4 cm x 43.2 cm); 20.75" H (52.7 cm) on included custom stand.

The "foo dog" is a western name for the Chinese "shi shi", the guardian lion that was a popular architectural protective figure originating in Imperial China that spread into many Asian cultures. Often portrayed in a pair with a male and female creature to represent the balance between Yin and Yang.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex-M. Kobiashi collection, Hawaii, USA, 1960 to 2000

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#162452
Condition Report: Losses and chips to peripheries. Surface abrasions and weathering commensurate with age. Wonderful details!