Large Antique Chinese Engraved Brass Handwarmer, Qing

This wonderfully large mid-19th century round brass handwarmer features a deeply engraved and punched ribbed body and a lovely pierced openwork cover. Eight of the ten scalloped segments are decorated with engraved floral and figural motifs on a ground of punched circles. The two side panels on which the engraved handle mounts are fastened have a contrasting geometric design, and the double swing handle is attached to the mounts with copper rivets. The lovely perforated lid bears central medallion with an auspicious fruit and flower design. There is an apocryphal Ming mark engraved on the base within an unusual and elaborately engraved medallion.

In the winter months in China, handwarmers would be filled with glowing coals and carried to warm the holder’s icy fingers and toes. A New Year’s tradition had villagers taking coals from the main village fire back to their own homes in handwarmers such as this one to ensure good fortune in the coming year. The intricate and refined beauty of these utilitarian objects also made handwarmers an important accoutrement in the scholar’s study.

CONDITION is excellent.

DIMENSIONS: 8" (20.4 cm) diameter; 5 1/4" (13.4 cm) high, not including handle.

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