Popularized during the introduction to Buddhism in Japan, ShiShi were a combination of a Korean Dog and a Chinese Lion. Others feel that the ShiShi is derived from the Chinese Foo Dog. Commonly the term Foo Dog and Foo Lion are used interchangeably is a misconception, but lions are not indigenous to Japan, China or Korea, appearing first during the Han Dynasty over 2000 years ago. Our example is a combination of a dragon and a lion, known in Japan as a ShiShi. This joss stick - candle holder is glazed pottery with multi-colored enables, decorated with clouds and stars. Its tail used as a handle. An old tag on its base stating it was once museum property. Approximately 5" High x 4 5/8" Long x 3 1/4" Wide. 18th Or Earlier Century.
