Chinese Lu or Incense Burner

Bold, looping blue character fills the side of this small drum like a signature.

This porcelain lu or incense burner is from Hebei Province, China, and dates to the 19th century. Incense burners in China are generally associated with offerings to ancestors and deities, and with the quiet rituals of reading, meditation and welcoming guests. Compact barrel with a flat top, a small central hole, and a blue-painted band of curling strokes around the shoulder. A large, heavy brushed character in deep cobalt covers the side. The glaze is greyish white with a slightly dull finish. It is 2.25 inches high and 2.5 in diameter.

One big flourish, painted without hesitation.