Shishi Foo Dog, Closed Mouth

This elaborate and vibrant Japanese-style Foo Dog (Shi Shi) sculpture stands as a single guardian figure—exquisitely detailed and full of character. It is adorned with bright enamel floral motifs, thick raised moriage-style texturing, and extensive gold accents across the mane, claws, face, and decorative orb. The lion’s powerful stance and expressive features are complemented by a golden staff held in its mouth—an uncommon detail that adds distinctiveness and symbolic strength.

Unlike traditional male-female pairs, this individual Foo Dog serves well as a standalone protector. Crafted likely in the mid to late 20th century, it displays the hallmarks of Japanese Satsuma-inspired export porcelain: bold colorwork, gilded detail, and hand-applied raised enamel decoration.

Details:

• Origin: Japan (likely mid-20th century export)

• Age: Estimated 1950s–1980s

• Materials: Hand-painted porcelain with gilt and moriage-style raised enamel decoration

• Dimensions: Approx. 13" tall x 11" wide x 8" deep

• Condition: Excellent vintage condition with no chips or cracks noted; minor wear consistent with age, especially on the base

• Style: Japanese Satsuma-style, Moriage, Export Porcelain

• Theme: Protection, Power, Spiritual Guardianship

This striking Foo Dog makes an impactful standalone statement for collectors of Asian decorative arts, feng shui arrangements, or vintage ceramic sculpture.