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A truly exceptional antique coffee table formed around a powerful pair of hand-carved Chinese Foo Dogs, richly decorated in aged polychrome paint and presented beneath a sleek glass top. A rare fusion of sculpture, symbolism, and functional design.
Key Features
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Hand-carved Chinese Foo Dogs with expressive detailing and traditional polychrome paintwork
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Vibrant blue, green, and aged gold tones with authentic time-worn patina
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Male and female guardian figures symbolising balance, protection, and prosperity
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Early 20th century origin with strong sculptural presence
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New 10 mm toughened glass top creating contrast between antique form and modern clarity
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Bold statement piece combining functional furniture with decorative art
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One-of-a-kind composition — no two examples ever alike
Full Description
This rare antique Foo Dogs coffee table is built around a striking pair of hand-carved guardian lions, each displaying muscular form, animated facial expression, and curling tails that speak to skilled traditional craftsmanship. Finished in richly layered polychrome paint, the figures retain deep tones of blue, green, and aged gold, softened by decades of natural wear that give the surface exceptional depth and character.
Dating to the early 20th century (glass is new), these Foo Dogs exhibit an authentic patina that cannot be replicated, revealing their long decorative history. The male figure traditionally represents strength and authority, while the female symbolises nurturing protection. Together they form a harmonious pair long associated with prosperity, balance, and safeguarding the home.
A newly fitted 10 mm toughened glass top rests across the backs of the figures, allowing the sculptural quality of the dogs to remain fully visible while creating a practical surface for everyday use. The transparency of the glass enhances the visual impact, creating a dynamic interplay between solid carved wood and clean modern lines.
More than a coffee table, this piece functions as sculptural art. It anchors a room with confidence and individuality, making it ideal for eclectic, contemporary, or traditionally layered interiors seeking an authentic focal point.
Explore Our Guide to Antique Coffee Tables
To explore how antique coffee tables developed across different periods and materials, we’ve created a detailed guide to antique coffee tables.
Dimensions
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Foo Dog height (to head): 44 cm
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Foo Dog width: 28 cm
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Foo Dog depth (nose to tail): 107 cm
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Glass top: 100 cm wide × 52 cm deep × 1 cm thick
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Overall footprint including glass and figures: approx. 100 cm × 107 cm
Materials
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Hand-carved solid wood
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Original antique polychrome painted finish
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New 10 mm toughened clear glass
Condition
This antique piece shows expected signs of age including surface wear, fading, and marks that contribute to its authentic character. Some historic evidence of woodworm is present; this has been fully treated and is no longer active. Overall condition is good and entirely consistent with age and use. Unless stated, decorative props are not included.
Origin / Period
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China
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Early 20th Century
Styling Suggestions
Perfect as a centrepiece in a living room, this Foo Dogs coffee table pairs beautifully with neutral upholstery, layered textiles, and both antique and contemporary furnishings. It works particularly well in eclectic, maximalist, or globally inspired interiors where sculptural furniture is celebrated.
FAQ
Are the Foo Dogs original antiques?
Yes, both figures date to the early 20th century and retain their original carved form and polychrome finish (glass is new).
Is the glass top removable?
Yes, the glass top is removable for transport or styling flexibility.
Is this piece structurally stable for everyday use?
Absolutely. The Foo Dogs are solidly carved, and the glass is modern toughened safety glass suitable for daily use.
Unique Points
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Rare sculptural coffee table featuring antique Foo Dogs
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Authentic polychrome paint with genuine aged patina
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Symbolic Chinese guardian imagery
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One-off statement piece combining art and furniture
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Modern glass top enhancing antique craftsmanship
All your questions answered below...
- Fully insured delivery
- Returns accepted
- Authenticity assured
- UK-based seller, secure checkout
Delivery & Shipping Information
We’re dedicated to delivering every order with care, reliability, and your satisfaction at the heart of what we do.
Fully insured UK mainland delivery is calculated at checkout (typically £12–£45). Larger furniture items may be £60+ depending on item size, access, and delivery postcode.
Please note: the listed price is for the item only. Delivery costs are calculated separately at checkout.
UK Delivery (Mainland)
We are based in Southsea, Portsmouth (PO5) and deliver nationwide across the UK.
Delivery charges are calculated based on the item’s size, weight, and destination to ensure the most accurate and fair pricing.
Free local delivery may be available depending on your location — please get in touch to check availability.
Delivery Areas & Coverage
We deliver to most UK regions and aim to provide the most efficient and cost-effective delivery options available.
For delivery addresses north of Newcastle, or within Wales, Scotland, the Highlands, Ireland, and offshore islands, please contact us before purchasing so we can confirm delivery availability and provide an accurate quote.
International Shipping
We can arrange international shipping worldwide.
Please contact us for a tailored shipping quote.
Delivery Times & Method
Delivery typically takes 5–10 working days, depending on location and order timing.
We use trusted specialist furniture couriers experienced in transporting antiques, vintage furniture, and fragile items, ensuring safe handling throughout transit.
Standard delivery is one-man delivery to ground floor only.
Assistance may be required unless a two-man delivery service is arranged at an additional cost.
Need a Delivery Quote?
For an accurate delivery quote or to confirm any additional charges, please contact us via:
📞 +44 (0) 7973 154860
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✉️ Email us with your full delivery postcode
We can ship to most places. We have the ability to to send consignments Internationally and they are all professionally wrapped, packed and or crated for a safe and successful journey.
There is going to be additional costs and lead times depending on various factors.
The best advice is to get a quote before you decide to purchase any item/s.
Listed in every product description are the dimensions for each product.
This information is provided so you can check if the piece you wish to buy will fit in your home.
Please double check your dimensions. One, to make sure it will fit through any doorway in to your home. Secondly, to make sure it fits in the space you want to place in it in. If in doubt, ring for help!
Any questions please get in touch, here to help.
If you would like to speak to someone before placing an order, check dimensions or have a general question, please call Mark on 07973 154860.
You can email mark (@) campbellvintage.co.uk
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Office Address: 71 Campbell Road, Southsea, PO5 1RJ. By appointment only to this address. Need to be booked in advance.
Always here to help.
Our products come with a guarantee stating they are as described when purchased.
As all our products are either antiques or vintage and have a life before we got them, we do not offer traditional warranties due to the nature of the items and history.
Please inspect the many images we provide online to be sure you want the item offered before purchasing.
The condition of each product is noted on all products in the main description. Please read this so you are clear on what you are buying.
If you have any questions however small beforehand and to give yourself peace of mind, please make contact. As we are very happy to discuss anything in greater detail.
One last thing! Please double check your dimensions. One, to make sure it will fit through any doorway in to your home. Secondly, to make sure it fits in the space you want to place in it in. If in doubt, ring for help!
Here to help.
We hope you will be happy with your purchase. If for any reason you are unhappy, you may return the item/items to us within 14 days. Please notify us within 14 days.
You will need to arrange for the safe return of any item or items purchased. Please ensure the goods are returned in the same condition as sent to you.
You will be responsible for all return cost.
Once we have received your return, we will refund you the cost of the item/items, less any initial delivery and packaging costs, within 14 days.
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Trade sale. Sold as seen. No returns.