Sancai Guardians: Pair of Chinese Kangxi Biscuit Porcelain Fu Lions

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Sancai Guardians: Pair of Chinese Kangxi Biscuit Porcelain Fu Lions
1700-1710

A vibrant and expressive pair of Chinese glazed biscuit … Read more Sancai Guardians: Pair of Chinese Kangxi Biscuit Porcelain Fu Lions
1700-1710

A vibrant and expressive pair of Chinese glazed biscuit porcelain Fu Lions (often called "Foo Dogs" in the West), dating to the celebrated Kangxi Period (1662–1722).

Modeled in a crouching position, these temple guardians are decorated in rich "sancai" (three-color) glazes, featuring bodies of amber-yellow with contrasting manes, tails, and details in emerald green and aubergine.

The pair strictly follows traditional iconography representing Yin and Yang:

The Male rests his paw upon a brocade ball (representing supremacy over the world).

The Female is accompanied by a playful cub climbing her leg (representing nurturing and the cycle of life).

Both figures support green trumpet-shaped joss stick holders (vases) on their backs and sit upon rectangular, openwork pedestal bases splashed with matching green, yellow, and aubergine glazes.

Measurements:
Height: 6 inches (15.2 cm).
Width: 2 1/4 inches (5.72cm)
Depth: 1 5/8 inches (4.13cm)

Condition: Good antique condition

Historical Context:

Biscuit Porcelain: Unlike standard porcelain where the glaze and body are fired together, "biscuit" wares are fired unglazed first (the "biscuit" stage), then painted with enamels and fired a second time. This technique creates a sharper, crisper modeling and deep, translucent colors that adhere directly to the body.

Kangxi Era: The Kangxi Emperor's reign is considered the high point of the Qing Dynasty for ceramic arts. These figures utilize the sancai palette, a revival of styles from the Tang Dynasty, adapted for the refined tastes of the 17th and 18th-century scholar's table or domestic altar.

(Ref: NY11039-mkkx) See less