Qing Dynasty Bronze Tripod Censer

Qing dynasty, c. 18th to 19th century, China

Exquisite and beautifully cast bronze tripod censer from the later Qing Dynasty, featuring a compressed globular body raised on three short conical feet and flanked by elegant upright loop handles. The underside bears an apocryphal six-character Qianlong mark, “Da Ming Xuan De Nian Zhi,” set within a recessed rectangular panel—an homage by later craftsmen to the revered “Golden Era” of Xuande bronzes. During the Xuande period, the emperor famously ordered fine imported copper from Thailand to create exceptional incense burners, inspiring later artisans to emulate these masterpieces with respectful commemorative marks.

Censers such as this superb example were used for burning incense to purify spaces, honor deities, fumigate garments, and create a tranquil environment for study and contemplation. Ancient Chinese belief held that incense soothed the spirit and elevated the mind, making the censer an essential vessel in both ritual and scholarly settings. The form of the censer—rooted in traditions dating back to the Warring States period—derives from earlier ritual bronzes and embodies China’s enduring reverence for incense culture.

A refined and atmospheric object, richly patinated and steeped in history, perfectly suited for collectors of fine Asian bronzes.

Good condition. Surface wear and abrasions commensurate with age and use. A fine greenish black patina envelops in layers of mottled grayish hues. Mineral encrustation and minimal corrosion. Size approx. 11,6cm x 11,6cm x 8,5cm. 

Provenance: Finnish private collection

References and further reading:

7 Things You Need to Know About Incense Burners, Chinese Works Of Art, Sotheby's, Jun 12, 2019. (www.sothebys.com/en/articles/7-things-you-need-to-know-about-incense-burners)