Censer with Cover and Stand

Culture: Chinese
Dynasty: possibly Ming dynasty, 1368–1644
Dynasty: possibly Qing dynasty, 1644–1911
Date: 17th–early 18th century
Material: Bronze with pigment, wood, and jade
from: China, Asia
Classification: Containers, metalwork
Collection: Asian Art
Current Location: On View, Gallery 229
Dimensions: 26 1/4 x 25 11/16 in. (66.7 x 65.2 cm)
Credit Line: Gift of Robert E. Kresko
Rights: Public Domain
Object Number: 6:2005a-c

NOTES

The visually complex shape and interlocking dragon decor of this work are based on ancient prototypes. The surface of this vessel appears to be an aged, corroded patina (finish) but is actually skillfully applied paint. This extraordinary tripod vessel is among the very rare Ming works that closely follow ancient ritual bronze design. Early collectors prized this bronze based on the elaborately carved cover and stand in matching fine woods that were created for it in the 18th century.

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