This finely cast bronze parcel-gilt censer with an old repair is crafted to show its age which is estimated at early Qing Dynasty.[88A] Loop handles issuing from the dragon mask were cast cire perdue on the bombe-shaped censer. Sharp, shallow abbreviated decorative motifs between the fillets are within the cavetto.[151B] Commemorative Ming Dynasty Nien Hao of Hsuan Te (1426-1435) is cast in the bottom in gilded relief against a dark background.[72C, 32D] This bronze incense burner appears to h ...click for details
The Art and Orchid Gallery's antique bronze hsiang lu is probably a 19th Century copy of a familiar 18th Century bronze bombe censer (ornamental bulbous container for burning incense).[25B, 151C] The incense burner has twin Buddhistic lion handles. Beginning in the Shang Dynasty (1766-1027 B.C.) similar cast vessels that were functional (food vessels) and ones used for rituals as highly decorated bombes have been found.[144D] During the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) Chinese bronze workers develop ...click for details
