Mid-20th Century Chinese Archaistic Patinated Metal Ding-Form Tripod Censer

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Description

A substantial late twentieth-century Chinese archaistic tripod incense burner or censer, conceived in the traditional form of a ding and … Read more A substantial late twentieth-century Chinese archaistic tripod incense burner or censer, conceived in the traditional form of a ding and dating conservatively to circa 1950s–1970s. Cast in a heavy brass or copper-alloy metal with dark brown and greenish patination, the vessel deliberately draws upon the formal and decorative vocabulary of ancient Chinese ritual bronzes.

The cylindrical body stands on three long, slightly tapered legs and is covered with vertically organised relief ornament. Symmetrical taotie-derived animal-mask motifs are combined with hooked scrolls, geometric spirals and leiwen-derived key-fret patterns, creating a densely worked archaistic surface intended to evoke Shang and Zhou bronze traditions.

The removable circular lid is comparatively restrained in profile and surmounted by an elongated loop-form handle terminating in stylised zoomorphic elements. Its mottled surface and darkened recesses correspond with the brown and green verdigris-type patination carried across the body and legs.

The interior retains warm brown and copper-toned oxidation, discoloration and residue consistent with use as an incense burner. The underside is rounded and supported directly by the three legs. No maker, foundry or reign mark has been identified.

At 4 lb, the censer is notably substantial for its 6.5-inch height. The metal is catalogued conservatively as cast brass/copper alloy because the precise composition has not been physically verified. The patinated surface is integral to its appearance and should be preserved rather than aggressively polished.

Measurements: 6.5 in H × 5.5 in W × 5.5 in D

Weight: 4 lb

Style: Chinese, Archaistic Revival

Origin: China

Age: Circa 1950s–1970s See less