A beautifully carved pair of traditional Chinese guardian lions, each sculpted from dense green hardstone with natural white inclusions and mottling throughout.
Weighing approximately 1.1kg each, these substantial figures display excellent hand-carved detail, from the swirling manes and expressive faces to the ribbed pedestal bases and symbolic features.
Each lion is carved with an open mouth containing a freely rotating ball—a classic motif symbolising protection, vigilance and the containment of negative forces.
The pair comprises the traditional male (with ball under paw) and female (with cub), positioned on complementary plinths with geometric carved fronts.
The stone exhibits lovely variations in tone, with deep forest greens blending into lighter veining. This is a wonderfully decorative pair suitable for shelves, altars, bookcases or as statement pieces in an interior influenced by Asian art.
🌿 Pair of hand-carved Chinese hardstone guardian lions
🌿 Rotating ball carved inside each lion’s mouth
🌿 Dense green stone with white veining and mottling
🌿 Traditional symbolic poses and ribbed geometric plinths
🌿 Strong decorative presence; excellent symmetry
🌿 Approx. 15cm tall; c.1.1kg each
Condition
🌿 Good vintage condition with minor surface marks and natural fissures typical of hand-carved stone.
🌿 Slight tool marks and tiny edge nicks in places.
🌿 No structural cracks; balls rotate freely; bases stable.
Our Antique Forager Ethos
We source antique and vintage pieces for their craftsmanship, character and individuality, selecting only those that stand out and carry a story worthy of passing on.
Shipping
Free UK postage. Worldwide delivery available — rates vary by destination and weight. Shipping costs are calculated at checkout. Every item is carefully packed and insured.
