Covered Incense Burner, late 18th-early 19th century
Unknown artist, Chinaexpand_more
White jadeiteexpand_more
The John R. Van Derlip Fund and Gift of the Thomas Barlow Walker Foundationexpand_more 92.103.24a,b
Not on Viewexpand_more
This white tripod is of the highest standard in terms of pure color. White seems to have been the prized color in jade throughout Chinese history, but it reached a height in popularity during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. This vessel has an exceptionally luminescent quality, and in view of this its maker has taken care not to clutter the form with detailed ornament, but rather provide a simple, polished surface that under strong light is totally dazzling. The tripod shape here is a vague reference to the ancient ceremonial bronzes of the early Zhou. This form, originally used in ancestor rites, was eventually revived and simplified to be used as Buddhist censers during the later dynasties of the Ming and Qing. Like the other magnificent jade burners in the Walker collection, however, this object was mainly cherished for the innate beauty of the stone itself.
Details
- Title
- Covered Incense Burner
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 92.103.24a,b
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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