Chinese Blue and White Fu Lion Headrest, C. 1920

Description

This square ceramic block is actually a form of Chinese headrest or neck pillow. Popular during the Qing dynasty, rigid … more This square ceramic block is actually a form of Chinese headrest or neck pillow. Popular during the Qing dynasty, rigid headrests such as this were used by upper-class women to protect their elaborate hairstyles by elevating the head during slumber. Dated to the early 20th century, this example is glazed in the blue-and-white style with floral scrollwork and geometric meanders surrounding coin-shaped cutouts symbolizing wealth. The short ends of the headrest are decorated with mythical fu lion dogs playing with embroidered balls, a motif that evokes the idiom "may you and your descendant achieve high rank." A powerful and benevolent guardian, the fu lion (shizi) is the perfect force to protect against nightmares and bad energy.

Minor hairline cracks to coin cutouts. less