Chinese Jade Censer

Studded like dragon hide, white as milk.

Stone carvers of Xinjiang, China, made this censer in white stone in the 19th century. Small stone vessels along the old Silk Road region were commonly used for incense or ritual offerings, and the goblet form suits that role. A tall cylinder, covered in rows of raised studs, rises from a flared stem and foot. The stone is milky and slightly translucent, with cloudy veining and small irregularities at the rim. Light wear softens the studs at their tops.

About 5 inches tall. Holds incense, or attention, or a single very good pencil.