Incense Stand, one of a pair, 18th century
Unknown artist, Chinaexpand_more
Zitanexpand_more
Gift of Ruth and Bruce Daytonexpand_more 2004.179.2.1
Not on Viewexpand_more
In their earliest form, incense stands were used by the Chinese to present offerings to the Buddha. With time, the incense stand was adapted to domestic settings, however unlike chairs or beds, it retained its spiritual implications. It ws often used in formal occasions as well as to display flowers or antiques. These paired stands are superbly developed examples of the cabriole-leg style with round top. Made from zitan, one of the rarest and hardest woods known, the elegant five-legged stands are unified by their consistent and complex joinery, as well as their carved decoration and excellent proportions.
Very few pairs of zitan incense stands have survived. Because the rare hardwood was largely controlled by the court, these might have once been set with incense burners flanking an aristocratic couch or even a throne. Ch'ing dynasty throne settings often included a pair of incense stands like these supporting animal-shaped censers placed to the front on either side of the throne.
Details
- Title
- Incense Stand, one of a pair
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 2004.179.2.1
- 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.
Does something look wrong with this image? Let us know
Zoom in on the left to the detail you'd like to save. Click 'Save detail' and wait until the image updates. Right click the image to 'save image as' or copy link, or click the image to open in a new tab.