A pair of Chinese male porcelain Foo dog figurines. The figurines are covered with a pretty glossy glaze olive green finish. Each Foo dog is holding a paw on a ball. Unmarked. Circa: 20th century. Chinese guardian lions, or imperial guardian lions, are traditional Chinese architectural ornament. Typically made of stone, they are also known as stone lions or shishi. They are known in colloquial English as lion dogs or foo dogs. The concept, which originated and became popular in Chinese Buddhism, features a pair of highly stylized lions often one male with a ball and one female with a cub which were thought to protect the building from harmful spiritual influences and harmful people that might be a threat. Asian Oriental Figurines, Export Arts, Home Decor, and Collectibles.

Dimensions: Average: 11 x 12 1/2 x 6 1/2 in. All measurements are approximate.