Chinese Figure of a Foo Lion on a Coin

Round, lion-faced lump with whiskers, a grin and a round tail knob.

This jade figure of a foo lion on a coin is from China, and dates to the 20th century. The coin shape in Chinese decorative arts often refers to wealth and good fortune, and it is a frequent companion to auspicious animals in jade carving. Crouching creature with a broad face, curled brows, tiny ridged teeth and rounded paws tucked under the chest. A heavy rounded body ends in a small ball at the back. Pale green surface with a smooth polish. It is 2 inches wide, 1 deep and 0.75 high.

Fierce in theory, adorable in the round.