This ceramic foo dog oil lamp is crafted in a sculptural form, featuring a guardian lion with a fierce expression, an open mouth, and a curled mane. The figure is seated on a square base, its muscular forelegs resting on a small object, a common motif in traditional Chinese guardian lion imagery. A handle extends from the back, while the top supports a shallow bowl with raised edges and small protrusions, originally intended to hold oil for lighting.
The surface is coated in a green glaze, characteristic of sancai-style ceramics, which pools in recessed areas, emphasizing the detailed modeling. Spiral motifs embellish the mane, shoulders, and base, while the glaze exhibits natural wear, revealing the raw ceramic beneath. The square base remains partially unglazed, exposing the clay and featuring a stamped mark on the reverse.
Traditionally used as an oil lamp, this piece was likely produced in a Chinese kiln known for sancai-glazed wares, such as those in Henan or Shanxi provinces, where architectural and altar ceramics were commonly made. While originally functional for lighting, it has a myriad of uses today, serving as a decorative object, an incense or candle holder, or a collector’s piece reflecting historic craftsmanship.
