LARGE CHINESE BRONZE / BRASS DRAGON CENSER

LATE QING / REPUBLIC PERIOD

A substantial Chinese bronze/brass tripod censer, dating approximately to the late Qing dynasty / early Republic period.

This is an unusually large and heavy example, weighing approximately 3.36 kg.

The compressed globular body is finely engraved with a large sinuous Chinese dragon amongst clouds and stylised waves, with further floral and scrolling decoration.

Around the neck is a continuous geometric leiwen-style border.

The censer is raised on three substantial shaped feet and fitted with a pair of large upward-sweeping handles, giving the piece a particularly strong and well-balanced form.

The underside bears an apocryphal Xuande-style mark surrounded by engraved dragon decoration. The mark is a later tribute mark and the censer is not being offered as a Ming Xuande-period piece.

The considerable size and weight give this censer a particularly substantial presence.

Approximate dimensions:

Diameter at rim: 22.3 cm

Width including handles: 24.6 cm

Height: 12.6 cm

Weight:

Approx. 3.36 kg

Date:

Late Qing dynasty / Republic period, circa late 19th to early 20th century.

Condition:

Good antique condition overall with expected surface wear, rubbing, marks, oxidation and patination consistent with age and use.

Please study all photographs carefully as they form an important part of the description.

A large and unusually heavy Chinese dragon-decorated censer, weighing over 3.3 kg, with an apocryphal Xuande-style mark to the base.