Vase with lions

China

Qing dynasty (1644–1911), Qianlong period (1736–95)

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 219

The doglike lions cavorting on the surface of this vase are often known as Fu dogs in the West. Fu, or fo, is the Chinese word for Buddha, and the creatures were probably so named because they are often found in temples or monastic compounds. Here they are placed among various emblems of good luck and fortune, such as flaming pearls, coral branches, and silver ingots.

Vase with lions, Cloisonné enamel, China

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