Censer - Bronze - Chiliong Dragons - China - 18/19th century

Large Chinese Bronze Tripod Censer with Chilong Handles
China, 18/19th century

A substantial and finely cast Chinese bronze incense burner (tripod censer) dating to the 18th or 19th century, raised on three robust feet. The vessel’s body is flanked by a pair of chilong dragon handles, their sinuous forms rendered with energetic detail and lively presence, serving both as functional grips and decorative focal points. The compressed tripod form is balanced and harmonious, reflecting the elegance and proportion characteristic of refined Qing dynasty bronze work.

Comparable examples of bronze tripod censers with expressive casting and classical forms can be found in European collections and sale records, demonstrating the enduring appeal of this type of ritual and decorative object.

Provenance: Acquired from an old Dutch collection.

Reference: See similar censers sold at Stockholms Auktionsverk (€ 3.010) Catalogue number 17 in Fine Art & Antiques Spring 2023 and Rob Michiels (€ 2.340):

https://www.rm-auctions.com/en/asian-arts-october-2020/18789-a-chinese-bronze-chilong-handled-tripod-censer-seal-mark-17-18th-c

Dimensions: H14,5 x W27 (handles) x W22
Weight: 2,9 kg

Condition: Very good, with a few minor superficial dents and some white tarnish from polishing. The inside shows some green corrosion.

Shipping:
The lot will be securely packaged and shipped with insurance.