Large Pair Of Earthenware Fo Dogs

Large Pair of Earthenware Foo Dogs. Chinese Foo Dogs have strong ties to Buddhism, where lions are revered as sacred animals. The Buddha is believed to have tamed a mythical lion, signifying control over one's inner nature. This association with Buddhism has led to the integration of lion symbolism into Chinese art and iconography. Foo Dogs are often shown in pairs, with one representing a male and the other a female. This duality represents the balance of yin and yang energies. The male, often shown with a ball under his paw, symbolizes the world, while the female, with a cub, represents nurturing and protection. Nestled at the entrances of temples, palaces, and homes, the enigmatic figures of Chinese Foo Dogs, also known as Fu Lions or Imperial Guardian Lions, stand as silent sentinels of tradition and symbolism. These mythical creatures, with their imposing stature and intricate details, hold a special place in Chinese culture and art.