Lot #56: Antique Chinese Gilt Guardian Lion (Foo Dog / Shishi) Late Qing Dynasty, circa 1880s–1890

A powerful and highly decorative antique Chinese guardian lion, crafted in the late 19th century during the final decades of the Qing Dynasty. Guardian lions—known as Shishi—were traditionally placed to protect homes, temples, and important spaces, symbolizing strength, authority, prosperity, and spiritual protection. This example is cast in metal and finished with a warm gilt surface, displaying strong sculptural modeling and expressive detail. The open mouth, alert eyes, layered mane, curled tail, and grounded stance convey both movement and vigilance. The form reflects traditional proportions seen in authentic 19th-century examples rather than later decorative reproductions. Maker’s Mark & Authenticity This piece bears a maker’s mark, an important and increasingly rare feature. During the late Qing period, objects of this type were commonly produced by specialized workshops or regional foundries, rather than signed by individual artists. These workshops marked their work discreetly to indicate origin, quality, and lineage within the traditional artisan system. The presence of this mark: • Confirms professional workshop production • Aligns with late 19th-century Chinese casting practices • Supports authenticity and period attribution Many such workshop marks are no longer traceable to a single named maker due to the loss of historical records following the fall of the imperial system. This is normal for genuine Qing-era objects. Collectors instead rely on the consistency between the mark, casting quality, surface wear, and sculptural style, all of which align correctly on this example. Condition & Surface The surface shows honest age-related wear and natural patina, with softened gilding that enhances depth and character. This aging is consistent with a true antique and adds visual richness that modern castings cannot replicate. Display & Collectability This guardian lion presents beautifully as: • A standalone statement piece • A focal object on a console, shelf, or pedestal • Part of a curated Asian art or antique collection Its symbolism, age, and craftsmanship make it equally suitable for traditional interiors or as a bold contrast in contemporary spaces. Details • Origin: China • Date: Circa 1880s–1890s (Late Qing Dynasty) • Material: Gilt metal • Mark: Original workshop maker’s mark • Condition: Good antique condition with age-appropriate wear and patina Authentic 19th-century Chinese guardian figures with maker’s marks are increasingly scarce. This piece offers cultural significance, strong visual presence, and confirmed period craftsmanship—an excellent acquisition for collectors, designers, or anyone seeking a genuine object of imperial-era Chinese decorative art. Pickup category timeslot {A}