Pair of Guardian Fu Dogs

These petite 19th-century guardian Fu dogs, each hand-carved from a single block of blue stone, once sat upon a family altar table in a grand provincial Chinese home. The pair represents yin and yang, and they sit in mirrored postures upon lotus blossoms. The male lion rests his right paw on an embroidered ball, symbolizing his dominion over the universe, while the female lion rests her left paw on a cub, symbolizing the circle of life. The two stand at attention, offering protection from evil spirits. With elaborately carved manes and emotive expressions, these tabletop guardians have been imbued with a remarkable sense of life and energy.