Antique Chinese Foo Dog Pair – Fire-Gilded Bronze, 1880–1920
Pair of large Chinese bronze Foo Dogs (male & female), ca. 1880–1920. Fire-gilded surface with UV-confirmed gold traces. Height: 40 cm, Width: 37 cm, 7 kg each.
Disclaimer – Valuation Report
This valuation report has been carefully prepared by the 1stbuddha team based on detailed visual examination, stylistic research, technical analysis, and comparison with comparable museum examples and auction records. It is intended to provide a professional expert opinion for documentation and collector reference purposes.
Please note: this valuation report is provided for informational and documentation purposes only and is not intended as a formal legal, insurance, or tax appraisal. Where required for legal or insurance matters, an officially certified appraisal report may be necessary in accordance with applicable regulations.
Antique Chinese Foo Dog Pair – Fire-Gilded Bronze, 1880–1920
Description
Antique Chinese Foo Dog Pair – Fire-Gilded Bronze, 1880–1920
Dimensions per figure: Height 40 cm × Width 37 cm
Weight per piece: 7 kg
Material: Hollow-cast bronze with remnants of fire-gilding
Origin: China
Period: ca. 1880–1920
This rare pair of large Chinese guardian lions (foo dogs) represents the classical duality of protection and prosperity in Chinese tradition. The male figure, resting one paw on a globe, symbolizes worldly power, while the female, guarding a cub, stands for spiritual protection and nurturing.
Crafted in the late Qing to early Republican period, both figures are hollow-cast in bronze, assembled from traditional sectional molds. Remnants of original fire-gilding are visible under UV light and confirmed by microscopic analysis—especially in the deeper zones around tongues, paws, and floral bases.
Spiritual Significance & Placement
Traditionally placed at entrances for protection
Male: Dominance, strength, power
Female: Family care, spiritual defense
Ideal for homes, temples, garden altars, or feng shui arrangements
Authenticity Highlights
UV & microscopy confirm aged gilding and granular surface oxidation
No synthetic coatings; authentic signs of aging and patina
Closed underside, traditional assembly seams, and high-level detailing
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Antique Chinese Foo Dog Pair – Fire-Gilded Bronze, 1880–1920
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