QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY
HEIGHT: 9.5CM
WEIGHT: 265G
The censer is cast in imitation of an archaic ding vessel, with a
U-shaped body supported on three tubular legs and the rim set with a
pair of upright loop handles. The exterior is decorated in gold and
silver inlays with a pair of taotie masks, between keyfret borders
above and stylised cicada lappets on the feet below.
Small censers known as qinlu 琴爐 were particularly prized for their
compact size as they can be easily carried to any occasion of music
appreciation. They were specifically used to burn single sticks of
incense. The emerging graceful wisp of smoke and its subtle
fragrance were thought to enhance elegance at the music table and
promote a state of spiritual transcendence.
| 清中期 銅錯金銀獸面紋三足鼎式琴爐 |
