Meiji period (1868-1912), a very finely cast four section brass censer, raised up on a three level lotus flower rim base with dragon encircling the foot in high relief above swirling waves, the main body of the censer is full round shape flanked by two fierce dragon handles, the body with shaped vignettes containing different scenes in relief of birds amid flora and fauna, the ground surrounding the vignettes with scrolling vines, cherry blossoms and peonies as well as a repeated family crest, the neck section decorated with lotus petal leaves and chrysanthemums, the top portion with reticulated band having birds flying amidst swirling clouds, above the censer cover, also of reticulated swirling clouds, lion mask heads holding rings encircle the cover, a shishi foo lion attaches to the top as a decorative finial.

HOA 41 in.

From the Collection of Robert Jenks, Durham, North Carolina

Verdigris to areas of the censer, especially the foot base; one lion mask head is missing a ring; eight decorative floral attachments between the vignettes are currently unattached but remain with the censer; some losses and wear to surface; discoloration and scratches to metal; cover has break with loss to area of reticulated clouds.