Late 20th Century Pair of Chinese Porcelain Foo Dogs

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Chinese Foo Dogs sculptures are often placed in pairs at the entrances of temples, palaces, and homes to serve as … Read more Chinese Foo Dogs sculptures are often placed in pairs at the entrances of temples, palaces, and homes to serve as powerful protectors, believed to ward off evil spirits and bring prosperity. The lions are depicted in a stylized form, featuring intricate swirling manes, alert postures, and expressive facial features. One lion typically represents the male, with a paw resting on a ball symbolizing power and supremacy, while the other represents the female, often shown nurturing a cub to symbolize protection of family. These statues are crafted from ceramic, as indicated by their smooth, glossy surfaces and vibrant coloration. The coloring technique used is likely a form of traditional Chinese glazing, possibly influenced by the Sancai (three-color) glaze method, which was popular during the Tang Dynasty. The process involves molding or hand-sculpting the figures from clay, firing them in a kiln, then applying multicolored glazes and firing them again to achieve a vivid, durable finish. The blend of green, blue, cream, and brown hues along with the fine details suggests skilled craftsmanship and adherence to historical decorative traditions in Chinese art. See less