Pair of Antique Guardian Lion Bookends, Oriental Soapstone, Dog of Fo, Victorian

Our Stock # 26347

This is a pair of antique Guardian Lion bookends. An Oriental, soapstone decorative 'Dog of Fo' book rest, dating to the late Victorian period, circa 1900.

• Delightfully tactile bookends with an appealing natural finish and appearance
• Displaying a desirable aged patina and in good order throughout
• Crafted skilfully in milky white soapstone, with excellent form and detail
• Vein detail in medium grey hues add visual interest to each piece
  
  
• Represents a sitting Guardian Lion or Shíshī, with strong Oriental influence
• A Western term, Dog of Fo became associated with them as a translation of Dog of Buddha
• Such statues were present at the entrance to shrines, and they resembled Pekinese dogs
• The concept travelled to China via the Silk Road from India, along with Buddhism
  
  
• Great detail to the face and exuberant coat, with one paw raised upon a brocade ball
• Stands upon a broad socle base with a distinct shaped edge
• Dressed to the base with a protective leather cushion pad
• Ideal for ornamental display, or perfectly shaped for use as bookends

This is a striking pair of antique Guardian Lion bookends, with appealing natural colour and excellent form. Delivered ready to display.

Dimensions:
Max Width: 8cm (3.25'')
Max Depth: 13cm (5'')
Max Height: 18cm (7'')