Antique Chinese Jade Censer With Stone Chain and Guardian Lions – Qing Dynasty

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Antique Chinese Jade Censer with Stone Chain and Guardian Lions – Qing Dynasty
This exceptional antique Chinese jade censer is … Read more Antique Chinese Jade Censer with Stone Chain and Guardian Lions – Qing Dynasty
This exceptional antique Chinese jade censer is a rare and finely crafted ceremonial vessel, likely dating to the late Qing Dynasty (1644–1912). Measuring 16.25 inches high, 10 inches wide, and 6 inches deep, the censer is composed of intricately carved jade in a warm, variegated palette of browns, yellows, and greens. The stone exhibits a natural aged patina, consistent with its antique origin.

The censer features a two-part construction—a domed lid and a bowl-shaped base—each lavishly decorated with ornate scrollwork and symbolic motifs. The lid is crowned by a tall, tapering finial with an openwork tiered midsection and a small, rounded knob. Delicate carvings of floral scrolls and traditional cloud motifs adorn the surface, highlighting the skilled craftsmanship.

A prominent guardian lion (or fu dog) is sculpted near the lid’s peak. From the top of this mythical beast's head descends a carved stone chain—a remarkable and rare detail—anchored to the base below. This hand-carved stone chain, an uncommon feature in jade censers, enhances both the artistic and technical prestige of the piece. The chain's reddish-brown coloration complements the overall tone and adds to the harmony of the design.

The base is a wide, shallow bowl resting on a sturdy, cylindrical pedestal. It features additional lion-head handles on opposite sides, each grasping a suspended ring from its lower body—a classical element in traditional Chinese incense burners. The pedestal is further enriched by bands of detailed carving, including a Fret key pattern encircling the base—an unusual and visually striking fusion of Eastern and Western design.

This is a museum-worthy example of Qing Dynasty jade carving. The combination of guardian lions, an architectural lid, a rare hand-carved stone chain, and classical ornamentation makes this censer not only a functional incense burner but also a highly collectible work of Chinese decorative art.

Condition:
The piece shows appropriate wear for its age, with some surface weathering and minor natural imperfections in the stone. The patina and slight variations in coloration further attest to its age. See less