Chinese Censer with Dragon Handles, Ashtamangala Motif and Lid Decorated with Scholar's Gourds

Gourds hang from the lid on a knotted cord, which is more whimsy than most incense burners allow themselves.

This censer with dragon handles, Ashtamangala motif and lid decorated with scholar's gourds comes from China and dates to the Qing Dynasty (late 19th / early 20th century). It is bronze. The Ashtamangala, or eight auspicious symbols, entered Chinese decoration through Buddhism, and the gourd is generally read as a wish for long life and many descendants. The body is cast with the symbols among scrolling foliage, and the lid is pierced with floral openwork. Squared handles end in dragon heads. It is 8.75 inches wide, 5.63 deep and 11.25 high.

Smoke goes out the top, good wishes in every direction.