Chinese Ivory Lion Dog Male

3D ModelNoAI

Pair of ivory guardian lions/ lions of Fo / lion dogs (shi shi) on wooden lotus bases used to protect from evil spirits. The curly hair on the lions usually depicts a high rank in society. The male lion holds a ball under his paw, symbolising power and authority, representing control over the world and protection of the home or collection it guards. Together, the pair embodies complementary yin-yang principles — the male asserting strength and the female ensuring protection and care. It is typical that the male stands on the right hand side looking at the public while the female stands on his left. Larger examples of Chinese guardian lions are for temple or architectural use, however this small pair was most likely crafted with the intention of a luxury decorative object or presentation gift for the home. Probably late Qing dynasty.

Catalogue Number: BELUM.C267.1949

Model © National Museums NI