Chinese Blue and White Fu Lion Headrest, C. 1900

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...

This large 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 early 20th century and is glazed in the blue-and-white style with rich, cobalt-blue color. The headrest is decorated on all sides with mythical fu lion dogs playing with ribbon-tied brocade balls, 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. A geometric meander trims the corners and small dragon-like 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...

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...

Attractive large Chinese pair of hand painted glazed pottery winged Fu-dogs in walking position. The Fu-dogs can be used indoors or outdoors, they...

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...

Chinese polychrome glazed ceramic figural sculpture of the immortal Fu, god of happiness, depicted holding a child, his robe elaborately decorated. Me...

This is a good Chinese hardwood foo dog, sometimes called a temple lion that we date to the late Qing period, circa 1900. The piece is hand carved as a fierce dog or lion sat on a...

This Shiwan ceramic opium pillow /headrest of earthenware features a green glaze. Pillows in this shape were not only used by opium smokers but mo...

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...