Blue and White Lion and Peony Headrest

Mid-20th Century

$280 SOLD

Dimensions

W: 5.0" D: 2.25" H: 4.5"

Materials

Porcelain

Collection #

CESB029I

Estimated Shipping

$20

This small ceramic block is actually a form of Chinese headrest or neck pillow. Popular during the Qing dynasty, rigid headrests such as this were used by upper-class women to protect their elaborate hairstyles by elevating the head during slumber. This example dates to the mid-20th century and is glazed in the blue-and-white style with a stencil-transfer design.

The broad sides of the headrest are decorated with a mythical fu lion dog amid peony blossoms, symbols of summer, love, and affection. A powerful and benevolent guardian, the fu lion (shizi) is the perfect force to protect against nightmares and bad energy. Spider chrysanthemums decorate the short sides, symbols of autumn and longevity. Floral scrollwork trims the edges and coin-shaped cutouts perforate the side, beckoning wealth and good fortune.

Hairline cracks on both sides.

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Headrests

Headrests and neck pillows have been used since ancient times to keep the head elevated while sleeping and hold the body in a comfortable position. Whether functional or purely decorative, such headrests were crafted from a variety of materials and were often decorated with elaborate patterns or symbolic motifs.