Sculptural group with Foo dog and dragon. China, 20th century.In coral. Eyes in glass.Wooden base.Weight: 850 gr (with base).Measurements: 11.5 x 12 x 9 cm (without base); 15.5 x 15 x 11.5 cm (with base).This sculptural group, featuring a Foo dog and an oriental dragon, is entirely made of coral. Both pieces are characterized by the detail and meticulousness in each of their parts. The foo dog, similar to a lion, is an important symbol in Chinese Taoist culture and, due to its influence, also in Japanese and Thai culture. It is identified with protection against evil spirits, and hence they are often represented in pairs at the entrance of temples, imperial tombs, palaces, government buildings, etc.. They are also known as Imperial Guardians, and were very frequent in the art of traditional China. They are attributed mythical powers of protection, and appear as early as the Han Dynasty (206 B.C. - 220 A.D.) at the entrance of important buildings. Taoist philosophy attributes to it all the properties associated with the masculine principle or Yan. Proprietor of the rains and lord of the waters, he is often represented carrying a ball. This gives him divinatory powers. It has several holes that go through the carving, at the upper end has a small perforation that would allow it to be worn as a pendant.