White jade censer, Qing dynasty, 19th century

White jade censer from Hetian, with a creamy tone. It is carved and with engraved decoration. Perfectly crafted with a pot-shaped body, supported on three feet and with two handles at the top, located under the neck. The neck is circular, short and with a prominent rim. Under the handles there are two rings in relief and finally an engraved band showing a phoenix with clouds.

In ancient times incense burners, apart from scenting rooms and being part of rituals, were used as a measure of time. When lighting a stick of incense, the time it takes to extinguish is observed. It can vary depending on the environment, humidity, wind and spices, although it can be close to half an hour. 

Provenance: Important collection of Tommy Lam, Hong Kong, since 1980.

Height: 5.8 cm; Diameter: 6.4 cm; Weight: 113 g