Qing Dynasty Bisquit Porcelain Guardian Lion Incense Holders

Qing dynasty, Kangxi or Yongzheng period, c. 1700-1735, China.

Absolutely gorgeous pair of bisquit porcelain incense holders. Chinese guardian lions, or imperial guardian lions, are a traditional Chinese architectural ornament. They are known in colloquial English as lion dogs or foo dogs. The concept, which originated and became popular in Chinese Buddhism, features a pair of highly stylized lions, often one male with a ball (xiù qiú) which represents the material elements and one female with a cub - which represents the element of spirit, 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, the lions subsequently spread to other parts of Asia including Japan, Korea, Philippines, Tibet, Thailand, Myanmar, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Cambodia, Laos, and Malaysia.

Modelled in mirror image, each depicted recumbent guardian lion in pedestal with its bushy tail curled alongside its rear haunches, the detailed head with a fierce  expression and a semi-opened mouth revealing sharp fangs. Covered in heavy and thick chocolate brown dip glaze. Good condition. Age-related wear and signs of use. Minimal fractures in glazing. Imperfections from manufacture. Rough areas on the bottom. Bumpy surface, abrasion and minor pinholes. Size approx. 15,2cm x 9,5cm x 10,5cm and 15,2cm x 9,4cm x 10,5cm. Sell as a pair.

Provenance: Finnish private collection