Chinese 3" Shishi Guardian Lion Brown & Green Glaze Foo Dog Figurine (1) Single. Like new condition. This is a vintage ceramic Foo Dog figurine with a brown and green glaze.

Foo dogs, also known as guardian lions or Shishi, are traditional Chinese architectural ornaments believed to protect a building from evil spirits. They are typically displayed in pairs, with the male often depicted with his mouth open to ward off spirits, and the female with her mouth closed to safeguard the home and family. The glaze on this piece is thickly applied, dripping from the head down to the feet. The lion is considered sacred in Buddhism and is sometimes presented as an offering to Buddha. The figurine is a ceramic guardian lion, often referred to in the West as a Foo Dog or in Okinawa, Japan, as a Shisa. These statues are traditional guardian figures believed to offer protection and bring good fortune.

Description and Symbolism. Appearance: The figure in the image is a ceramic statue with a brown, green, and blue glaze finish and ornate, swirling details on its mane and body.

Origin: The concept originated from Chinese guardian lions (shishi), which spread to other parts of Asia, including the Ryukyu Islands (Okinawa) in the 14th century through trade.

Function: They are traditionally displayed in pairs to flank entrances, gates, or rooftops of homes, temples, and government buildings to ward off evil spirits and misfortune.Pairing: When displayed as a pair, the open-mouthed figure (typically male) is meant to scare away evil spirits, while the closed-mouthed figure (typically female) is believed to keep good spirits in.