Carved Bicolor Stone Recumbent Buddhist Lion (Shishi)
Name/Title
Carved Bicolor Stone Recumbent Buddhist Lion (Shishi)Entry/Object ID
SC0503Description
Chinese carved ornamental stone figure of a recumbent Buddhist or guardian lion (shishi), modeled in a compact crouching posture with oversized head, open mouth, scrolling mane, powerful forelegs, four articulated paws and curled tail. Carved substantially in the round, including the underside, with rounded sculptural modeling and selectively incised details. The naturally mottled stone ranges from warm ochre and tan to reddish and purplish brown. A pierced opening at the rear accommodates an associated suspension cord with braided attachment, bead and tassel. Buddhist lions are traditional Chinese auspicious and protective motifs. Exact stone type undetermined; provisionally classified within the soapstone/Shoushan-type softstone subgroup. China, probably 20th century. Maker unknown; no inscription or maker's mark observed.Type of Sculpture
Free StandingArtwork Details
Medium
Appears to be Soapstone or Shoushan stoneSubject
Buddhist or guardian lion (shishi)Category
Chinese carved stone
Made/Created
Artist
Maker presently unidentifiedTime Period
20th CenturyEthnography
Cultural Region
Continent
AsiaCulture/Tribe
Chinese