A Chinese Bronze Censor of a Fu Lion, Ming Dynasty, ca. 1368 - 1644 CE

This two-part bronze incense censer features a lower body with a hollow, plump shape that stands on an openwork leg network connected by integrated supports. The somewhat dome-shaped lid is adorned with an openwork representation of a guardian, having a fierce grimmace, pulled-back ears, and holes at both the mouth and back of the head to allow smoke to escape. Medium: Bronze Dimensions: Height: 5 3/4 inches (14.6 cm) Condition: The base is intact and has a heavily encrusted verdigris patina. The lid has a marked crack and some edge loss, yet the piece remains unusual and overall, very charming. Provenance: Tom Carson private collection, assembled in the 1980’s to 1990’s, thereafter private N.J. collection.