Lion head in Venetian Medieval style. 19th century, Italy. Stone. Measures 22x21x22 cm
Marble figure from Samaritana, France, 18th century. Sculpture measures: 83 x 26 x 22 cm. Total measurements with base: 138 x 31 x 31 cm
Fu dogs are usually shown in pairs and with one or both front legs resting on a sphere. The first representation of Fu dogs dates back to the Han Dynasty, in Chinese art, around 208 BC. C. and until 221 d. However for almost 400 years they are not found again and only reappear in the Tang Dynasty. (618-917 AD). Its introduction into Chinese art coincided with Buddhism. The popularity of this hybrid being was then based on its symbolism. Buddhist art showed lions, unknown until then, as beneficial beings and masters of the felines. Fu's dog was a protector of sacred buildings and a defender of the law. Dogs used to be placed flanking portals of business institutions, temples and, in general, places inhabited by distinguished people. It was not uncommon to see these sacred dogs guarding graves or in front of government buildings to scare off evil spirits. The pairs of Fu dogs are usually sexed, so in the pair that guards the sacred entrance of an enclosure we differentiate the female from the male because the latter holds an orb under his paw, while the former holds a baby. In fact, each of which has different powers and attributes.
Made of carved stone. They have a galloned body with effigies on the fronts, garland decoration and an exvassed mouth. One of them deteriorated. Measurements: 50 x 45 x 45 cm.
