

Chinese Censer
Chinese Antique Cloisonné Enamel Censer Bowl
Age:19th Century
Descriptive qualities& condition:
Dimensions: 2-1/2"h x 8-0" dia.
This stylish hand-crafted Chinese cloisonné bowl with filigree scrollwork and Bad Xiang Hua floral decorations, (which is an imaginary plant with attributes of several different flowers including lotus, peony, and chrysanthemum), which is a testament to the age and hand-crafted detail. Individual cloisons create decorative scrolling swirls of gold on the muted black background, while the main decorative motif is manifested through intricately detailed wire formations. There is turquoise counter enamel on the base with brass on the upper rim and a circular base.
Incense and censers have played a role in religion and used as ritual vessels for centuries. By the Song dynasty (960-1279) censers had made their way into the scholar’s studio. In this setting, censers were used as incense burners - a sensory accouterment and source of inspiration for the Chinese scholar’s artistic and literary pursuits. The piece was purchased with Chinese ironwood carved stand, and dates to the 1920s-1930s during the China Republic Period.
Condition: Exceptional condition exhibiting an aged patination and meticulous care, no scratches, no loss of enamel or damage with minimal imperfections related to daily use with the exception of the metal appearing to be tarnished by age. “As is” means the object has not been cleaned or restored and retains the original craftsmanship.