162.
A ‘FAMILLE VERTE’ BRUSH POT, BITONG
Qing dynasty, Kangxi period, late 17th–early 18th century
12,7 cm high
Provenance: Naples, Villa della Floridiana, Museo Duca di Martina, Placido de Sangro (1829-1891) collection.
inv. n. 3708.
Lions (shi) are considered in Buddhism as protector of the Law. Sculptures of seated lions are in fact positioned at the entrance of temples.
Even if not indigenous of Chinese territory, lions are known from ancient times, venerated for their strenght and courage. During the Ming and Qing dinasties military officers of the first and second rank used badges with the depiction of this animal.
The widespread iconography of two lions playing with a ball could be interpreted as a wish to have a successful career.
