Foo dogs are really lions. Behind their aesthetic appeal is a rich
history of legend and tradition. The lion is known as the proud mater
of
the feline race. It is not indigenous to China, although lion artwork
and
sculptures were imported gifts to the emperor. The lion does not occur
in Chinese primitive art, but was introduced later in connection with
Buddhism
as the defender of law and protector of sacred buildings. Lions are
often
placed at temple gates and porticos of houses. Sometimes, they guard
tombs.
Stone lions in front of official buildings were originally put there to
scare demons. The conventional Chinese lion is sometimes called the
"Lion
of Corea" or the "Dog of Foo," because it was found at the threshold of
Buddhist temples. The lion is sacred to Buddhism and is sometimes
presented
as offerings to Buddha. Some Buddhist deities are occasionally depicted
mounted on this beast. It is an emblem of value and energy, those
indispensable
complements of wisdom, and was embroidered on the court robes of
military
officials of the second grade.
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Home - Tahoe-RNR
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