Vintage Cloisonné Enamel Dragon-Handled Tripod Censer With Qianlong Mark

Details

Description

This is a striking and substantial vintage incense burner (censer), crafted in the traditional Chinese cloisonné enamel technique on a … Read more This is a striking and substantial vintage incense burner (censer), crafted in the traditional Chinese cloisonné enamel technique on a copper base.

The censer features a classic tripod form with a bulbous body, resting on three ornate legs modeled as mythical beast masks. The body is decorated in vibrant cloisonné, featuring a bright turquoise ground with a sweeping pattern of stylized lotus blossoms and scrolling vines in shades of pink, yellow, green, and blue. A red band with yellow floral motifs encircles the shoulder.

The piece is flanked by two intricately cast, silver-toned dragon handles that curve upwards. The domed lid features matching cloisonné decoration and is crowned with a detailed, cast figure of a mythical beast (a Qilin or guardian lion). The lid also features pierced openwork to allow incense smoke to escape.

The underside of the base bears an apocryphal four-character Qianlong reign mark cast into the metal. This visually impressive piece is perfect for a collector of Asian antiques or as a striking decorative accent in a living room or study.

Dimensions:

Height: 29.5 cm (approx. 11.61 inches)

Length: 22 cm (approx. 8.66 inches)

Width: 16 cm (approx. 6.30 inches)

Weight: 2215 grams (approx. 4.88 lbs) See less