Pair of Foo lions; China, 1970.

Pair of Foo lions; China, 1970.
White and green jadeite.
Measurements: 14 x 6 x 8 cm (x2).
Pair of Foo dogs carved in white and green jadeite "Mian Dian yu". The pieces present a delicate carving in terms of the anatomical forms of the animals. However, in the case of the facial features, the carving tends to a schematic synthetism, outlining the features. Thus showing the author's interest in a symbolic conception of both pieces.
The foo dog, similar to a lion, is an important symbol in Chinese Taoist culture and, due to its influence, also in Japanese and Thai culture. It is identified with protection against evil spirits, and hence they are often represented in pairs at the entrance of temples, imperial tombs, palaces, government buildings, etc.. They are also known as Imperial Guardians, and were very frequent in the art of traditional China. They are attributed mythical powers of protection, and appear as early as the Han Dynasty (206 BC - 220 AD) at the entrance of important buildings. Today, foo dogs are still frequent as decoration and symbolic elements at the entrance of all kinds of buildings, from hotels to supermarkets. In fact, we can find them both in China and in other countries with a Chinese emigrant population.

COMMENTS

This lot can be seen at the Setdart Madrid Gallery located at C/Velázquez, 7.