Period: 18th-19th century, Qing dynasty
Material: Bronze
Origin: China
Size: 10.5 × 10.5 × 20.5 cm (length × width × height)
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This antique Chinese bronze incense burner dates to the 18th-19th century, during the Qing dynasty.
Incense vessels have long held a place in Chinese religious and domestic life, combining practical use with an appreciation of form, material and decorative craftsmanship.
The dragons and scrolling clouds draw on established traditions of Chinese ornament. Here, these motifs appear on an openwork cover above a tall pedestal and lotus-petal base, bringing together intricate decoration and a balanced, dignified form.
Its appeal lies both in its own sculptural presence and in the longer tradition of Chinese bronze incense vessels it represents. The combination of pierced decoration, rich bronze tones and elegant proportions gives the piece an enduring decorative character.
