
A very fine pair of biscuit Buddhist lions. China, Kangxi
The Buddhist lions are decorated in famille verte enamels on the biscuit, each seated on a large plinth. The male lion has a brocade ball at its feet, while the female lion is accompanied by a lion cub. Both lions have stick holders on their backs.
- Country:
- China
- Period :
- Kangxi (1662-1722)
- Material:
- Porcelain (biscuit)
- Dimension:
- 7.87 in. (20 cm)
- Reference :
- E407
- Status:
- sold
Provenance
-Pierre Saqué, 12 avenue George V, Paris
-From an important French private collection formed between 1924 and 1941
Notice
Originally made for the domestic market in various sizes and glazes, Buddhist lions became popular in Europe during the 18th century. Although lions are not indigenous to China, they were introduced through Indian Buddhism and became a classic theme in Chinese art. From the Ming dynasty onward, Buddhist lions, often referred to as Dogs of Fô or Dogs of Buddha, began to appear in Chinese art and were used as guardians at Buddhist temples. They reached the zenith of their popularity during the early Kangxi period (1662-1722), coinciding with a marked increase in interest in Buddhism in China.
Buddhist lions were frequently depicted in pairs, one male and one female. The prevalence of these animated creatures at the time denoted their integral role in Chinese iconography. Symbolically, the lions represent bravery and loyalty; these mythical creatures also appeared on military badges of the first and second rank. Made to hold an incense stick, they were often placed on dining tables as decorations in Europe.