Important ritual censer in carved lacquered wood, China, late 19th – early 20th century

An important and rare rectangular ritual censer in hardwood carved in relief, retaining superb traces of polychromy and Cinnabar-style red lacquer.

This cult vessel of exceptional dimensions, intended for incense offerings on a principal altar or within a temple, is distinguished by the strength of its lines and the quality of its carved elements.

The two impressive lateral handles, of animated inverted-S form, lend the object its full presence. They are carved in low relief with a scrolling frieze of blossoming lotus flowers, the Buddhist symbol of purity.

The censer rests upon four vigorous feet, carved in the round as the heads of protective mythical creatures, heightened with red lacquer.

The body presents cyma-moulded panels of great structural sobriety, elegantly contrasting with the exuberance of the handles and the base.

One of the lateral sides of the body bears a rare incised ritual inscription of six Chinese characters, perfectly integrated into the patina of the wood. Translation: “Respectfully offered by (or in memory of) Yu Lin Shizhang”.

This nominative dedication attests that this censer is an object of worship and devotion, commissioned by a family or a lettered devotee.

Weight: 7,600 g