Chinese Carved Pale Green Jade Hardstone Guardian Lion Foo Dog Republic Period C.1930–50

CHINESE CARVED PALE GREEN JADE HARDSTONE GUARDIAN LION – REPUBLIC PERIOD, c.1930–1950 On Stand

A particularly attractive Chinese carved pale celadon-green hardstone guardian lion, or shishi, dating to the Republic period / mid-20th century, circa 1930–1950.

Finely carved in the round, the mythical lion is depicted seated on four powerful legs with a broad open mouth, pronounced muzzle and an elaborate curling mane extending around the head, shoulders and back. The paws are individually articulated and the body is extensively worked on all sides, giving the figure considerable sculptural presence despite its compact size.

The carving displays the highly stylised appearance associated with Chinese Buddhist guardian lions, traditionally regarded as symbols of protection, strength and prosperity.

Of particular appeal is the stone itself. It has an attractive pale celadon to soft apple-green colour with areas of considerable translucency. When illuminated, the material develops a luminous yellow-green appearance, while small natural dark inclusions and variations can be observed within the body.

The material appears consistent with Chinese serpentine/Xiuyan-type hardstone, traditionally marketed within the broad category of Chinese jade. As the stone has not been laboratory tested, it is conservatively described as jade hardstone rather than definitively as nephrite.

The figure is accompanied by a fitted dark hardwood display stand, specifically recessed to receive the feet and underside of the carving.

Small Chinese guardian-lion carvings are known from the Republic period, with comparable pale-celadon examples catalogued to the first half of the 20th century.

Origin: China

Period: Republic period / early-mid 20th century

Date: circa 1930–1950

Material: Pale green serpentine/Xiuyan-type jade hardstone

Subject: Chinese guardian lion / Shishi / Foo Dog

Height: approx. 6 cm excluding stand

Width: approx. 5 cm excluding stand

Weight: approx. 111 g excluding stand

Condition: Very good overall vintage condition with minor age-related surface wear and natural inclusions/variations within the stone. The fitted wooden stand shows some wear commensurate with age. Please examine all photographs carefully as they form an important part of the description.

About CKB LTD.

CKB LTD. was formed in 2010 and operates as an independent dealer, with a focus on carefully selected works offered through private sale and online platforms.

The company emphasizes informed attribution, clear descriptions, and responsible market practice. Objects are evaluated through visual examination, comparative research, and reference to established art-historical frameworks, with attention to condition, authenticity, and context.

CKB LTD. works with private collectors, dealers, and international buyers, and conducts transactions in accordance with standard international art market conventions. Each item is offered as a collectible work of art, with transparency regarding condition and attribution, and with respect for the nature of historical objects.

Condition, Attribution & Authenticity Notice

This work is offered as an antique object based on visual examination and comparative stylistic analysis. All statements regarding age, origin, attribution, and period represent informed scholarly opinion and are not guarantees of absolute fact.

Condition descriptions are based on external observation only. The interior, underside of the base, and any internal cavities or consecration materials have not been examined. No technical analysis (including XRF, thermoluminescence, or metallurgical testing) has been performed.

As is typical with antique bronzes, minor casting irregularities, surface wear, rubbing to high points, oxidation, and age-related imperfections are present and should be expected. No visible repairs or restorations are observed from the available views; however, the absence of hidden restorations cannot be guaranteed.

All items are sold as is, and prospective buyers are encouraged to examine the photographs carefully and request additional information prior to purchase. By bidding or purchasing, the buyer acknowledges acceptance of the item?s condition and the nature of antique works.

International Buyers ? Important Information

This item is an antique work of art over 100 years old and is sold as a collectible object. Buyers are responsible for any import duties, VAT, GST, customs fees, or local taxes imposed by their country.

The seller does not provide CITES documentation, export permits, or cultural property certificates unless explicitly stated. Please verify import requirements with your local customs authority prior to purchase.

All shipments are professionally packed and fully insured. Title and risk pass to the buyer upon shipment.

This work is offered in accordance with standard international art market practices.