A fine and rare 16th century late Ming dynasty Chinese bronze tripod incense burner with carved wood cover and stand, the bronze vessel very well cast with three panels each containing three large "shou" characters in different archaistic seal script, against geometric ground and each panel divided by raised vertical flanges, the top rim flanked by a pair of vertical looped handles and supported on three cylindrical legs, the metal of dark chocolate-brown. The hard wood cover of later date fixed with an oval shaped nephrite jade finial incised with a mythical animal, the superbly carved "ruyi" form custom made hardwood stand is possibly 18th / 19th century, of fine quality workmanship.

DATE : Chinese, late Ming Dynasty, 16th Century.

MARK : no mark or signature.

SIZE : the censer alone approximately 8" (20.3 cm) high to the top of the handle, 5 1/8" (13 cm) across the handles. Overall height including stand and cover is about 11 1/2" (29 cm).

CONDITION : the bronze vessel in perfect condition with original patina, minor wear commensurate with age. Wooden cover and stand also in excellent condition, jade finial with natural fissures and inclusions. No damages or repairs.

SHIPPING : Inclusive.