Bronze Shishi and Cub

[Mat]

I have this bronze shishi with his cub, it's length is 11 cm. I think it could be a Chinese scroll weight. I have seen similar ones being dated to the 17th century, but I am not sure about my one, as I am not so familiar with Chinese bronzes. Has anyone any ideas as to it's age? And what is the meaning of the cord in his mouth? I have not seen another one with that detail...
Thank you,
Mat

[Jlsherf]

Though way out of my area I found this interesting.  I only came up with what the rope could mean.  Perhaps someone combined these to symbolize a guardian of a new beginning.  Shimenawa rope....
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shimenawa

[Ipcress]

Could be exactly as you describe it. Certainly appears to be Edo period

The hole could imply that it was a finial or part of a larger item but i like how it lies flat

[Mat]

Thank you, both of you!
so you think it is Japanese? It is true that the closest examples of Shishi and cub that I could find, with the cub in the same position, were Edo period netsuke...

[mart]

I have no idea what it is but it has a beautiful patina !!  That rich deep color is what all antique bronze should look like !!

[KC]

Take a read and see the rope in the mouth here...
http://www.buddhamuseum.com/iron-foo-dog_89.html

Also, the Karajishi is a Chinese lion but is often written for Japanese.  Japanese was Komainu.
http://www.iromegane.com/japan/culture/shishi-and-komainu-whats-the-difference/

In Korea it is a Koma-inu. 

I have only seen one reference to the rope as being the lead/leash to the foo dog next to it.  I have also see reference involving Shintoism - that it is holding the hemp rope that rings the Suzu bell to summon the Shinto gods (kame) at a shrine. 

http://www.trocadero.com/Japonisme/items/804720/en7.html

[Mat]

Thank you for the links KC, and mart, yes, the patina looks even better in reality!
Mat