Pair of Antique Oriental Soapstone Foo Dog Bookends 
A Symbol of Power, Protection and Prosperity
- Sold Winning Bid: $72.77
- 26 Bid(s) View Bid History
- High Bidder: Jeninuts
Pair of Antique Oriental Soapstone Foo Dog Bookends
Embrace the charm and mystique of the Orient with this exquisite pair of soapstone Foo Dog bookends. Each piece exhibits a delightful tactile quality and a visually appealing natural finish, accentuated by a warm cream and grey mottled appearance that showcases the material's innate beauty. These bookends display a desirable aged patina and are in good order, making them a splendid addition to any collection.
Key Features:
- Crafted from high-quality soapstone, known for its durability and fine texture.
- Features a detailed depiction of the mythical Foo Dog, a symbol of protection in Oriental culture, sitting proudly with one paw poised on a brocade ball.
- Each bookend is supported by a broad socle base with a neatly shaped edge, adding elegance and stability to the design.
Condition: The bookends are in good condition with minimal signs of wear consistent with age, including minor chips and imperfections.
Dimensions:
- Overall: 5.75" X 4" X 2.35" (each)
- Weight: 2 lbs 3.2 oz (each)
Chinese foo dogs, also known as Chinese guardian lions or Imperial guardian lions, are traditional mythical symbols of protection in Chinese culture. Typically rendered in pairs, these leonine effigies are imbued with protective potency. The male is distinguished by his celestial orb, while the female cradles a cub. Often positioned at the entrances of homes, temples, and government buildings, their origins trace back to ancient China, where they were believed to possess protective powers. Employed in imperial palaces, tombs, and governmental edifices, they symbolized power, strength, and good fortune. Over time, the foo dog has evolved into a popular decorative item and an enduring symbol of Chinese culture. The Japanese equivalent is the shi shi.