Japanese mini Glazed ceramic Okinawa Shisa Foo Amulet Dog pair 5.75"x4.75" A344

circa 1940s, a pair of Shisa Okinawa Food Dogs Pottery Amulet, they are in excellent condition. They measure approximately. 5.75" x 4.75" x 4.75".

Shisa in Okinawa are mythical lion-dog guardians inspired by Chinese foo dogs, symbolizing protection against evil spirits and misfortune, and bringing good luck. They are always placed in male and female pairs: the male has an open mouth to scare away evil, while the female has a closed mouth to hold in good spirits, representing the Buddhist concept of "a-un" (beginning and end).
 
Shisa statues are a variation of Chinese foo dogs (stone lions), which were influenced by the lions introduced 
Shisa are believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck to homes, businesses, and other structures.