Rare elephant censer in cast bronze
browse these categories for related items...
Directory: Antiques: Regional Art: Asian: Chinese: Scholar Art: Pre 1800: Item # 1455700
Directory: Antiques: Regional Art: Asian: Chinese: Scholar Art: Pre 1800: Item # 1455700
Please refer to our stock # 197 when inquiring.
price uppon request
Rare tetrapod censer representing a stylized elephant.
The censer is in cast bronze.The cast is beautiful and the finish is perfect,probably scrapped,no holes or roughness. The old patina proves the authenticity of the object. A frieze carved with swastika surrounds the elephant in its upper part representing a caparison. The ears are represented by 2 spirals as well as the tusks. The artist knew how to simplify the shape of the animal in a discreet way so the elephant fulfills its function of censor with elegance and sobriety.First we only see a censer at 4 feet,it's only after observation that the elephant appears.Excellent thought.This object was certainly commissioned by a ruler or scholar with a subtle mind and during a culturally and quite period.There is no trace of gilding or lacquer. I think this is Chinese rather than Japanese work, as the swastika frieze is not perfectly chiseled. A Japanese artist would have done a perfect job, while a Chinese artist would have stuck to the simple decorative aspect. In addition, early Edo Japanese bronzes were very often lacquered and there is always a little lacquer somewhere, here no trace,finally,I have never seen an object of a similar style anywhere in Japan.
I think Qing around 1800 or before.
Good condition,patina well preserved.
Long:16cm
Similar Items from this seller