This is a rare and exquisitely beautiful piece from ancient China featuring a handsome pair of carved wood Foo Dogs or Lions, which symbolize protection and prosperity.

This 10.5" pair is in perfect symmetry. Dog on the right has the ball under its right front paw, and the left one has it under the left paw.

Each sculpture is hand-carved from one single block of solid wood with the pedestal and is handpainted red. One special feature is the creation of vertical flatness on all 4 sides to allow for displaying in compact spaces or as bookends.

Many close-up photos were taken to capture the intricately carved details on the dogs' as well as on the pedestals.

Although the age, origin, and makers are unknown, they most likely belong to the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), judging from the style, color, craftsmanship, and the wood crack lines on the pedestals. Other than a few small crack lines due to age, there are absolutely no chips. (Amazing!)

Dimensions of each Foo dog front-facing:

Height 10.5" or 27cm

Length 5" or 12.7cm

Width or depth 3.5" or 9cm

Total weight is 5 pounds.