Ming Dynasty Bronze Censer with Dragon Handles, Lion Feet & Bat Motif, Marked Chinese Antique

$645.00
An exceptional example of late Ming period artistry, this small cast bronze censer is a triumph of symbolism and form. Weighing 266 grams and measuring approximately 2 inches tall and 3.75 inches across from handle to handle, this censer is finely modeled with sinuous dragon-form handles, robust lion-paw feet, and intricate reliefs of bats and lingzhi mushrooms—auspicious symbols representing happiness, longevity, and prosperity in Daoist tradition. The bronze has developed a warm, natural patina from centuries of reverent use. The underside bears a four-character mark cast in relief, likely honoring the reign period or invoking auspicious blessing rather than direct imperial attribution. While modest in size, the quality of the casting, the strength of its motifs, and its balanced proportions place this censer firmly in the tradition of scholar’s desk objects prized for both ritual function and refined aesthetic. A rare and collectible piece suitable for connoisseurs of Chinese antiquities, or those drawn to the elegance of classical symbolism in bronze form. Check out some of my other antiques: https://www.etsy.com/shop/DCSILVERSHOP?ref=search_shop_redirect§ion_id=6783279 Or just browse around the shop! https://www.etsy.com/shop/DCSILVERSHOP
An exceptional example of late Ming period artistry, this small cast bronze censer is a triumph of symbolism and form. Weighing 266 grams and measuring approximately 2 inches tall and 3.75 inches across from handle to handle, this censer is finely modeled with sinuous dragon-form handles, robust lion-paw feet, and intricate reliefs of bats and lingzhi mushrooms—auspicious symbols representing happiness, longevity, and prosperity in Daoist tradition. The bronze has developed a warm, natural patina from centuries of reverent use. The underside bears a four-character mark cast in relief, likely honoring the reign period or invoking auspicious blessing rather than direct imperial attribution. While modest in size, the quality of the casting, the strength of its motifs, and its balanced proportions place this censer firmly in the tradition of scholar’s desk objects prized for both ritual function and refined aesthetic. A rare and collectible piece suitable for connoisseurs of Chinese antiquities, or those drawn to the elegance of classical symbolism in bronze form. Check out some of my other antiques: https://www.etsy.com/shop/DCSILVERSHOP?ref=search_shop_redirect§ion_id=6783279 Or just browse around the shop! https://www.etsy.com/shop/DCSILVERSHOP