Cane E Foo Dog, Ancient Chinese Imperial Guardian Lions, Walking Stick, Shishi, LARPING, Renaissance, Medieval, Gentlemen?s Mystical, Steampunk, SCA Chinese or Imperial guardian lions are a traditional Chinese architectural ornament. Typically made of stone, they are also known as stone lions or shishi. They are informally known in colloquial English as lion dogs or foo dogs. The concept, which originated and became popular in Chinese Buddhism, features a pair of highly stylized lions?often one male with a ball and one female with a cub?which were thought to protect the building from harmful spiritual influences and harmful people that might be a threat. Used in imperial Chinese palaces and tombs, the lions subsequently spread to other parts of Asia including Japan (see komainu), Korea, Tibet, Thailand, Burma, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Cambodia, Laos, and Singapore. Statues of guardian lions have traditionally stood in front of Chinese Imperial palaces, Imperial tombs, government offices, temples, and the homes of government officials and the wealthy, and were believed to have powerful mythic protective benefits. They are also used in other artistic contexts, for example on door-knockers, and in pottery. Pairs of guardian lion statues are still common decorative and symbolic elements at the entrances to restaurants, hotels, supermarkets and other structures, with one sitting on each side of the entrance, in China and in other places around the world where the Chinese people have immigrated and settled, especially in local China towns. Makes a Great Gift for any Occasions and Stands out for Costumes on Halloween, a prop for a play or a casual stroll around town. The great men of the last two centuries have carried canes, from Sherlock Holmes, to Gregory House and of course Scrooge McDuck. Every Gentleman Requires a Cane. Specifications Overall Length: approx. 34.00 inch Handle Length: approx. 2 inch Handle Width: approx. 5 inch Shaft Length: approx. 31.5 inch Shaft Material: Steel, Matte Black Finish Handle Material: Zinc Aluminum Condition: [AAEA} This is a previously owned cane. It has no disfiguring damage or flaws. There may be normal wear and tear. Please look at all the photos of the actual item you are buying as they tell the true condition and description of this item. NOTE: We are selling this item as collectible for decoration or theatre props ONLY. This item does not come with weight limitations. Buyer must be aware of what will work for them if they choose to use it in any capacity other than for decoration and collection. This cane is not a substitute for a medical walking device. #KT-2020