The image shows a Chinese carved soapstone Foo Dog, also known as a guardian lion, which is a traditional Chinese architectural ornament. These statues are often placed in pairs to protect homes or buildings.

Key Features:

Material:

Typically made of stone, such as soapstone, but can also be found in jade or other materials.

Symbolism:

Foo Dogs are considered guardians and protectors, warding off harmful influences.

Pairs:

They are usually placed in pairs, with the male representing yang and protecting the structure, while the female represents yin and protects the people inside.

Usage:

They can be used as bookends, paperweights, or decorative pieces, and are sometimes found on top of seals or chops.

Foo dogs are symbolic and protective statues, and historically they come in twos as protectors around the world.