Pair of Guardian Fu Lions with Riders

c. 1850
$19,800 USD
Make an Offer
Dimensions
W: 14.0" D: 22.0" H: 32.0"
Materials
Limestone
Purchase Quantity
Collection #
CMCL087
Estimated Shipping
$980

This pair of intricately carved limestone fu lions once protected the entry of a grand courtyard home in 19th-century China. Also known as shizi or foo dogs, the mythical creatures are believed to be benevolent protectors and are traditionally placed at the thresholds of sacred spaces, such as homes, temples, and tombs. The pair represents yin and yang, the balance of male and female energies and all dual forces of the universe.

Carved with expressive facial features and elaborate manes, each fu dog sits with its foot resting on its characteristic accessory - the female shizi with a baby fu dog, representing the cycle of life, and the male shizi with an embroidered ball, representing dominion over the universe. A child rides on the back of each fu lion, one playing a flute and one holding a ruyi scepter, the auspicious 'wish granting wand' associated with blessings and longevity. Seated on limestone pedestals carved with geometric scrollwork, these lively fu lions are the ultimate protectors of the home or garden.

Deaccessioned from the MacLean Collection of Asian Art.

Questions? Ask us

What They're Saying

Elizabeth Krueger | Elizabeth Krueger Design

“PAGODA RED was extremely supportive in helping to pull accessory options together for the Lake Forest Showhouse. After providing them with details and our vision on how we were looking to finish our space, Laurene helped curate options that made it easy for us to edit and finalize. It's also no surprise that the unique pieces we used in our showhouse space were some of the first to sell.”

Receive our weekly email on design &
creating memorable spaces