Catalog (22)

This tripod censer is raised on three animal-masked feet that support its large, rounded body. The rim is decorated with a key fret design, and the body has ten lappets composed of stylized mask and key fret designs all in low relief. It retains its original brown patina overall with a deep greenish gray interior from use. Good condition.

Diameter: 12 in., Height: 8 ½ in.

These two vases were mostly part of an altar set that included an incense burner and circular box, all in cast bronze and having similar Koranic inscriptions. The vases are heavily cast as are most of these types of inscribed utensils. The calligraphy is raised from the background and is framed by a lobed cartouche surrounding a ring-punched background that helps to accentuate the inscription. The punched background was probably lacquered a dark brown or black originally and some traces appear to remain. The vases are well-cast and finely finished with concentric bands enhancing both the mouth rims and foot rims. A key-fret band is incised around the upper necks below the mouth rims. The exteriors exhibit a brownish, blackish patina and light patches of verdigris. Bronzes with Arabic inscriptions such as these vases were probably not made for export, but rather to serve the needs of the Muslim community in China. Both vases are in very good condition.

Height: 5 7/8 in.; Width: 3 3/8 in.

This incense-burner has a flaring rim form raised on three ogee feet and has its original patina and considerable carbon incrustation from many years of use. Two lion's head handles embellish the body and the cast Da Ming Xuande mark is centered on the base. The interior is darkened from use and the exterior shows small areas of darkened bronze where not obscured by blackish patina. There is a slight dent to the rim. The condition overall is very good. Purchased at auction in North Carolina from the estate of a diplomat who acquired it in Japan in the 1950s.

Diameter: 4 7/8 in., Height: 2 7/8 in., Weight: 423 grams exactly, about 15 ounces.

This incense-burner was originally lacquered a reddish brown tone with traces remaining, and has small areas of verdigris on the base and handles. The interior has some verdigris and encrusted ash. The base is cast in the center with an archaistic style six-character Xuande mark. The overall surface is darkened and has worn unevenly from age and use. A design of two opposing phoenix birds wraps around the body in shallow incising work. Overall good condition. Acquired in England in the 1970s.

Diameter: 3 7/8 in., Height: 3 in., Weight: 467 grams exactly, about 1 pound.