Mid 20th Century Vintage Chinese Bronze Censer With Foo Dog, Bat Motifs & Heart Sutra

Details

Description

This powerful antique Chinese bronze censer features a pierced lid crowned by a Foo Dog (guardian lion) finial, a classic … Read more This powerful antique Chinese bronze censer features a pierced lid crowned by a Foo Dog (guardian lion) finial, a classic symbol of strength, guardianship, and imperial protection. Surrounding the Foo Dog are elegant openwork motifs of bats, which symbolize good fortune, longevity, and joy in Chinese culture.

The front of the censer bears a prominent raised inscription of 阿彌陀佛 (Amitābha) — the Buddha of Infinite Light — while the reverse and sides are incised with vertical Buddhist script believed to be the Heart Sutra, one of the most important scriptures in Mahayana Buddhism. This deeply spiritual element reinforces the censer’s religious purpose and meditative presence.

The vessel features beast-head handles with bronze rings and rests on three sturdy animal-paw legs. The entire piece is cast from true bronze (non-magnetic) and exhibits a beautiful, untouched patina from years of ritual use. The interior shows aged verdigris, with a faint lingering aroma of incense.

This censer was acquired over 30 years ago from a temple in China, where it had long been used in ceremonial incense offerings. Based on the material, casting style, and inscriptions, it likely dates to the mid-20th century, and remains in excellent antique condition, with no repairs or restorations.

Dimensions:
Approximately 10 inches wide, 9 inches tall, and 7 inches deep
Weight: 6 lbs 12.4 oz

Photos:
The listing images highlight the full form, including detailed views of the Foo Dog finial, pierced lid, bat and lotus motifs, and beast-head handles. Close-ups show the full vertical Heart Sutra inscription, the large Amitābha inscription, interior verdigris, and the patina underneath the lid and body. Also visible is the maker's seal cast into the underside of the censer, further confirming authenticity.

Key Details
Antique Chinese temple censer
Pierced lid with Foo Dog (guardian lion) finial
Bat motifs and leaf scrolls on the lid
Front inscription: 阿彌陀佛 (Amitābha Buddha)
Vertical text believed to be the Heart Sutra
Beast-head handles with bronze rings
Cast in solid, non-magnetic bronze
Original untouched patina with incense residue
Acquired from a temple in China over 30 years ago

Tags: Chinese, Asian, Religious, Buddhist, Traditional, Antique, Temple Provenance, Hand-Cast

Color Palette: Antique Bronze, Patinaed Green, Natural Aged Tones See less