Pair of Large Chinese Qing Dynasty Carved Soapstone Seals.
 
Large and rare pair of hand carved soapstone Foo Dog seals. Beautiful sculptures of finely carved group of Foo Dogs topping a rectangular plinth with floral panels encised on the sides. Seals formed an important part of the stationary in the Qing Dynasty. They were used to secure letters and documents. A seal in China took the place of signatures or signs of approval. The Foo Dog in feng shui is a symbol of protection, known as the Imperial Guardian Lions. It was an essential part of Chinese culture and considered beautiful objects d’art. 
 
Condition is good commensurate with age and use. The bottom of the seal remains uncut. One minor ship on one edge.
 
Measurements: H 7 ¼” x W 3 ¼” x D 3 ¼”
 
Weight:  5 lbs each