IMPORTANT CENSER WITH CURVATED HANDLES.
China. Qing Dynasty. Yongzheng period (1722-35).

Bronze; finely engraved and with dark patina. On a fine rhombus foundation large taotie masks consisting of bats. At the lower part cartridges with stylized opposing birds. The
detachable handles as well as the neck decorated with stylized dragons; the legs with lion heads.

Such large censers were used in family temples and as representative objects in
palaces. The well-fitting and charmingly carved pedestal was subjoined in the 19th century. Height 46cm; ?42cm. At the outside of the mouth edge: Jing zhi (Respectfully made). Underneath: Six-part Yongzheng mark and probably from the period. Three-legged; round table. Dark hardwood; carved with dragons and lion heads. China; 19th c. Height 58cm; ?55cm. Condition A/B.

Provenance:
-Private collection Hamburg. Acquired locally by an ancestor of the present owner at the end of the 19th century.Art trade; Van Ham.