Antique Porcelain Buddhistic Fu Lion (19242)

Description

This single Chinese fu lion (or foo dog) porcelain figurine is totally whimsical, as are many fu lions in the Buddhist tradition.  Presented with a fierce appearance like flaring nostrils, ears pulled back and pointed teeth intended to ward off negative energy it also has humorous features, so you don’t take it too seriously.

He has a traditional multi-color glossy, drip-glaze finish with prominent amber/yellow and green colors referred to as sancai. It is highly stylized, with bulging eyes, a wide-open mouth displaying teeth, a curly mane, curled tri fold tail, and textured, scaly details across its body and back. It is seated upright on a rectangular, pedestal-style base also glazed in the amber color. It is clearly a male lion. A male is typically depicted with his paw resting on an embroidered ball, symbolizing power and protection of the structure. Although partially obscured, an object, presumably the ball, can be seen beneath its front right paw.

In the Ming and Qing dynasties, fine porcelain figures often appeared in the homes of scholars, merchants, and wealthy families, symbolizing literacy, refined taste, and social standing. According to Feng  Feng Shui, small Fu Lions should be placed facing outward near doors to guard the home, on a desk to protect one’s work or on top of cabinets to watch over the room