Incense Burner with Cover and Stand

Location: China, probably Beijing

Materials: gilt-copper, cloisonné enamel, amber, malachite, lapis lazuli, mother of pearl and glass

Dimensions: burner height 28 cm ; base diameter 25.5 cm

Accession Number: CH 483

Other Notes:

Based on an archaic bronze form ding, this incense burner has been modified by the introduction of elephant-head feet and handles. Such embellishment became fashionable during the 17^th century, providing a visual conceit where the actual supporting function is allied to the creature’s abstract attributes of strength and power. The reclining elephant on the cover bear a vase (ping), on e of the eight Buddhist symbols, representing eternal harmony and the ultimate triumph over birth and death. The cloisonné enamel decoration depicts the lotus, another of the eight Buddhist symbols.

Bibliography:

Haydn Williams, Enamels of the World: 1700-2000 The Khalili Collections, London 2009, cat. 65, p. 121.