Chinese Imperial Protection Charms: "Shishi"
Collection: Everyday Connections
Object Category: Charms and Talismans
Object Type: Protection Charms
Country: China
Continent: Asia
Geographic Region: Eastern Asia
Materials: Clay
width: 4 in;
height: 9.5 in;
depth: 3 in
These statues are referred to as "shishi" lions or "foo" dogs.
Statues of guardian lions have traditionally stood in front of Chinese Imperial palaces, Imperial tombs, government offices, temples, and the homes of government officials and the wealthy, during the Han Dynasty (206 BC – AD 220). They were believed to have powerful protective benefits.
Lion symbolism came from Indian culture especially through Buddhist symbolism. The lions are usually depicted in pairs. When used as statuary, the pair would consist of a male leaning his paw upon an embroidered ball representing the world and a female restraining a playful cub.
Source:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_guardian_lions