The magnificent Guardian Lion and Lioness Set Red Limited Edition of 188 numbered units serves as a powerful protective pair.
Chinese guardian lions, commonly called foo dogs in English, are a pair of lions that are commonly seen at the entrances of palaces, temples and homes of the elite.
Guardian lions are part of East Asian culture, from Thailand to Korea to Singapore. Traditionally the lions do the same as what gargoyles did in the West, they protect and guard the inhabitants of the dwelling from any evil or harmful spirits. Interestingly, lions are not indigenous to China, so it is likely that stories of lions protecting the Dharma brought Buddhism beliefs and symbolisms to China, where it was practiced and is the foundation of the beliefs behind the Chinese guardian lions.
The term foo dogs came about as they resemble Chow Chow and Shih Tzu dogs, which they were mistaken for and led them to be called foo dogs for decades before the misidentification was known.
Guardian lions are always placed on the ground, flanking the entryway. When you face the door, the lioness is always positioned on the left of the entrance, whilst the male, on the right. The lioness holds a cub under her left paw, symbolising the maternal protective spirit, and the lion holds a globe under his right paw, signifying control and protection of his territory and home.
Neoclassical home with the guardian lion
They make such a statement addition to your decor, a conversation piece that adds not just visual interest, but shows off your knowledge and expertise in the subject.
Guardian lionesses hold their cubs in their left paw.