Chinese Guardian Lion Pair on Archaizing Pedestals – 20th Century

This matched pair is conceived as a left-and-right guardian set rather than two repeated figures. One lion controls the traditional brocade ball while the companion figure is shown with a cub, completing the familiar protective pairing of Chinese guardian lions.

Decorative vocabulary

The compact bodies sit above tall stepped pedestals carved with meander borders and archaizing panels. Dense spiral manes, open mouths and strongly modeled paws give the figures a lively presence despite their modest scale. A dark reddish-brown patina leaves warmer copper tones visible across the raised surfaces.

Catalogue details

• Origin: China
• Period: second half of the 20th century, c. 1970–1990
• Material: patinated copper alloy / bronze
• Dimensions: A H 16 × W 6.5 cm; B H 15.5 × W 6 cm
• Combined weight: 2.2 kg

Surface and presentation

The hollow metal pedestals are weighted internally with mineral fill, giving the pair substantial weight for their size. The surface shows normal vintage wear, with darker material retained in recesses and brighter copper-toned highlights on exposed details. Traditionally placed as protective guardians, the pair works equally well as a compact architectural or interior accent.

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