Chinese Blue and White Headrest with Guardian Lion, c. 1850

This small ceramic block is actually a form of Chinese headrest or neck pillow. Popular during the Qing dynasty, rigid headrests such as this were used by upper-class women to protect their elaborate hairstyles by elevating the head during slumber. This example dates to the mid-20th century and is glazed in the blue-and-white style with dark, cobalt-blue color. Each side of the headrest has a quadrilobe cartouche framing two mythical fu lions playing with a brocade ball, a motif that evokes the idiom "may you and your descendant achieve high rank." A powerful and benevolent guardian, the fu lion (shizi) is the perfect force to protect against nightmares and bad energy. The playful scene is surrounded by a cracked ice pattern dotted with plum blossoms, symbols of winter and longevity. A geometric meander trims the corners and small bats frame coin...

This square ceramic block is actually a form of Chinese headrest or neck pillow. Popular during the Qing dynasty, rigid headrests such as this were used by upper-class women to prote...

This small ceramic block is actually a form of Chinese headrest or neck pillow. Popular during the Qing dynasty, rigid headrests such as this were used by upper-class women to protec...

Calligraphic sweeps of blue bring this 19th-century footed plate to life, brushed atop a blue-grey glaze that cloaks its simple ceramic form. Once used as an everyday serving dish, t...

This small ceramic block is actually a form of Chinese headrest or neck pillow. Popular during the Qing dynasty, rigid headrests such as this were used by upper-class women to protect their elaborate hairstyles by elevating the head during slumber. This example dates to the late 20th century and is glazed in the blue-and-white style with a stencil-transfer design. Each side of the headrest has a quadrilobe cartouche framing two mythical fu lions playing with a brocade ball, a motif that evokes the idiom "may you and your descendant achieve high rank." A powerful and benevolent guardian, the fu lion (shizi) is the perfect force to protect against nightmares and bad energy. The playful scene is surrounded by a cracked ice pattern dotted with plum blossoms, symbols of winter and longevity. A geometric meander trims the corners and small bats frame coin...

This small ceramic block is actually a form of Chinese headrest or neck pillow. Popular during the Qing dynasty, rigid headrests such as this were used by upper-class women to protec...

These magnificent Chinese temple lions are true works of art, masterfully crafted with incredible attention to detail. The bulging eyes, sharp ears, open mouth, and fluttering mane are expertly rendered, creating a pair of stunning creatures that are truly alive with energy and movement. The expressive faces of these lions are captivating, and the fact that they are a "true" pair, meaning a male and a female facing each other, adds to the sense of interaction and action. These lions are made of stoneware and painted in the traditional Chinese sancai three-color glaze on a light brown ground; dating to the late Qing period, they are covered in rich green, blue, and amber glazes. The intricate detailing and rich colors are breathtaking, making these lions a treasure. Temple lions, also known as lion dogs, are celebrated for their auspicious symbolism and are believed to protect the peace and prosperity of one's home. These lions are beautiful works of art and bring good luck and prosperity to the home they are placed in. Dimensions: 17" Height x 16" Length x 6 1/2" Depth. Condition: Excellent Price: $6,800 Background of Chinese Temple Lions: Chinese guardian lions...

A Chinese unglazed ceramic headrest with lovely patina and naieve carvings on both sides. ONe geometrical and one of a fantasy beast (griffion?). These headrests are found in difform...

From the Qing Dynasty, this Chinese ceramic plate is dominated by a blue-grey glaze and features wonderful hand painted blue strokes. Once used as an every day plate it is now a grea...

A vintage Chinese altar lidded vase from the mid 20th century with green celadon glaze, guardian lion adorning the lid's top and tapering lines. Immerse yourself in the cultural rich...

This Chinese ceramic plate is dominated by a blue-grey glaze and features wonderful hand painted blue strokes. Once used as an every day plate it...

This Chinese ceramic plate is dominated by a blue-grey glaze and features wonderful hand painted blue strokes. Once used as an every day plate it...