Chinese Bronze Censer With Lion-Mask Handles, Apocryphal Xuande Mark, 19th–20th Century

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Description

A well-cast Chinese bronze censer of compressed globular form, raised on a low foot ring and fitted with a pair … Read more A well-cast Chinese bronze censer of compressed globular form, raised on a low foot ring and fitted with a pair of finely modeled lion-mask handles in high relief. The dark brown patina shows natural verdigris accumulation in the recesses, consistent with age and authentic surface development. The interior retains a rich malachite green patination throughout. The flat base bears a six-character Da Ming Xuande reign mark (大明宣德年製) within a rectangular cartouche, apocryphal and standard for quality scholar's bronzes of this type.

The lion-mask handles are crisply cast with scrolling mane detail and retain green patina in the deepest recesses, indicating the casting was not cleaned or restored. Weight is substantial at 1,842 grams, consistent with quality bronze production of the period.

Dimensions: 2.25"H × 7.5" diameter. Weight: 1,842 grams.

A distinguished example of the Chinese scholar's studio bronze tradition, suitable for display as a stand-alone object or within a collection of Asian decorative arts. See less