Title: Incense Burner with Cover and Stand
Date: 1662-1722
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 17th 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.
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