Ceramic, imperial yellow enamel colour glazing
China, 18th/19th century
Expressive animal figures
Finely worked pair of Fo Dogs in a beautiful sunshine yellow
Both dogs gaze with large eyes towards the side
The mouth of one of the temple guardians is rendered slightly open
Both hold with one paw the brocade ball, partly in open work decoration
Depicted with bushy mane and tail
Their bodies are decorated with radial ornaments
Height: each 19.5 cm
Length: each 18 cm
Provenance: Private collection, Germany

Fo Dogs are traditionally believed to have powerful, protective benefits and were placed at special sites, worth protecting.



Fo Lions

Fo lions, also called guardian lions, enjoy high popularity in Chinese art. Their appearance is reminiscent of a mixture between a dragon and a lion. These mythical creatures usually come in pairs and were originally positioned to guard the entrance of Buddhist temples. In the arts and crafts, they are often refigured as doorknockers or decorative ceramic, marble, or bronze vessels.



Condition: The Fo Dogs are visually in good condition, yet show restorations and few small chips to exposed areas. The height of each figure is 19.5 cm, the length 18 cm.

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