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Pair, Ming Dynasty Gilt Bronze Diminutive Chinese Foo Dogs / Guardian Lions

Description

Chinese, Ming Dynasty.
Pair, Ming Dynasty Gilt Bronze Diminutive Chinese Foo Dogs or Guardian Lions of extraordinary quality and casting. Procured from an important New York Collection.

"Chinese guardian lions, or imperial guardian lions, are a traditional Chinese architectural ornament, but the origins lie deep in much older Indian Buddhist traditions. Typically made of stone, they are also known as stone lions or shishi (çŸ³ç…; shÃshÄ«). They are known in colloquial English as lion dogs or foo dogs / fu dogs. The concept, which originated and became popular in Chinese Buddhism, features a pair of highly stylized lions"”often one male with a ball which represents the material elements and one female with a cub which represents the element of spirit"” that were thought to protect the building from harmful spiritual influences and harmful people that might be a threat. Used in imperial Chinese palaces and tombs."

Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: You will note a layer of dust - because these are so old, I felt it was important to leave these as they are. No observed areas of loss of repairs.

Dimensions:
Height: 4 in.
Width: 3.25 in.
Depth: 2.5 in.

Category: Home Accents
Origin: China
Materials: Bronze

Shipping:

Domestic: Flat-rate of $70.00 to anywhere within the contiguous U.S.

International: No International Shipping for this auction.

Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding.

Location: This item ships from Millis, MA

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In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.

Condition

Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; You will note a layer of dust - because these are so old, I felt it was important to leave these as they are. No observed areas of loss of repairs.

Buyer's Premium

20%

Pair, Ming Dynasty Gilt Bronze Diminutive Chinese Foo Dogs / Guardian Lions

Lot 0023

Estimate $3,500-$10,490

Apr 5, 2026, 4:05 PM EDT

Starting Price

Secure

$700

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