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Foo Dogs Lead the Pack: Antiquity Art is in Style
As the saying goes, what's old is new again. That's never truer
than when it comes to home decorating. Buddhist art in general -
and Foo Dogs in particular - has become increasingly popular
with professional and amateur decorators alike. Many people were
first exposed to Buddhist art when feng shui - the Chinese art
and science of arranging space in harmony with the environment -
first became popular. Although feng shui has is roots in Taoism,
the Chinese incorporated Buddhist art, such as Foo Dogs, into
the design of their buildings from the second century B.C.
Foo Dogs, sometimes known as guardian lions, are generally
placed on either side of a building's entrance. According to
Buddhist tradition, Foo Dogs are the guardians of Dharma, or the
Truth. Typically displayed in pairs, the male lion has his paw
on a representation of the Earth, and the female has her paw on
her cub. Male Foo Dogs protect the actual building, while female
Foo Dogs protect those inside the building. Historically, they
were placed at the gates of temples, at the entrances to tombs,
and at the front of altars. Today, replicas of Foo Dogs are
often used outdoors as decorative elements at the bottoms of
driveways or indoors near the front doors.
Foo Dogs are not the only forms of Buddhist art that are popular
with decorators and collectors. A bronze Buddha or a laughing
Buddha is often displayed in living rooms, studies, and master
bedrooms. The peacefulness and tranquility that a bronze Buddha
or a laughing Buddha radiates is a welcome respite after
a
stressful commute or a long day at the office.
Buddhist art isn't the only form of ancient art that has
increased in popularity. Both Egyptian art and Greek art have
enjoyed a resurgence of interest. For example, plaques depicting
Isis or Anubis adorn many modern walls. In ancient Egypt, Isis
was worshipped as one who protected her son from danger and who
would protect mortal children as well. Anubis, typically
depicted as having the head of a jackal, is known as the God of
the Dead.
As with Egyptian art, many people are choosing to decorate their
homes with replicas of Greek art pieces. Vases, wall sculptures,
busts, and friezes are all being used as decorating elements in
today's homes. Many women feel empowered when they see
sculptures of ancient Goddesses, and are giving such sculptures
places of honor in their homes.
As testaments to their faith, Christians are embracing the
concept of incorporating Christian art into their homes.
Christian art may take the form of depictions of The Last Supper
or The Ten Commandments, or may even include statues of angels
and saints.
About the author:
Chris Robertson is an author of Majon
International, one of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing companies on
the web. Visit this Home Furnishings
Website and Majon's Home
Furnishings directory.
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