Large and substantial vintage near antique Dragon and Phoenix Chinese bronze censer, likely early to mid 20th century

Large and substantial vintage near antique Chinese bronze censer, likely early to mid 20th century (i.e. 1910s to 50s). Very well cast with crisply executed details, depicting two dragons and phoenixes to the sides of the lid, with another dragon on the lid finial. 

At some point there was red handwriting to the interior and the base, which when transcripted roughly reads 得道㡲之寧氣, which is a reference to incense being burned in censers when praying or meditating to help achieve enlightenment. Our opinion is that the red handwritten inscription which is written in traditional Chinese, as well as the level of execution in the casting of this piece, lends us to think this was made prior to the introduction of simplified Chinese in the 1960s. 

A beast, possibly shishi, on each side of the base holds a ring handle in its mouth, while the base is wrought with an archaistic pattern of horses and other animals. A very well made statement piece, possibly from the Republic period and of excellent quality.

Price marked at $1250 AUD.

Measurements: 20cm wide and approx 16cm across, 27cm height. 

Very good vintage near antique condition. Some wear to red handwritten inscription to base as pictured. A note from original owner with details of the inscription copied down. A beautiful rich patina which should be considered as a desirable indicator of age.

如果需要詳細資料，請聯絡我們。中文顧問時間：星期一至星期五。

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