Imperial Guardian Lions - Polychrome Terracotta

Impressive pair of polychrome terracotta Imperial Guardian Lions, Temple Lions or Shi Shi. Standing 1 metre tall, this pair are a superb example of early 20th century imported pieces. The pair are shown with their mouths open, in a seated position, atop a dressed plinth. The male shown on the right, or Yang, has his right paw resting on an embroidered ball or 'pearl of wisdom'. He guards prosperity, structure and the external. His female counterpart, holds her left paw atop her upturned cub. She is the Yin to his Yang. She is the protection of the people inside the home, and is symbolic of loyalty and nurture. Their mouths open to ward off evil, these imposing creatures are in remarkable condition for their age, their type and size. Collection from Cork City Centre Delivery available within ROI.