The censer is of rectangular form, rising to mouth rim and is supported by four mask-heads. The sides are applied with a further pair of dragon handles, and the body densely decorated with taotie masks above lotus blossoms amongst leafy tendrils. The cover is similar decorated with the same composite design, and a recumbent elephant form as the finial to the cover. PROVENANCE: Estate of Li Shuying, Alabama USA. She was born in 1906, classmate of the daughter of Chen Shuren who was a famous politition and painter in the early 20th century. Her mother was awarded for helping the Xinhai Revolution (1911), which overthrew Qing dynasty and established the Republic of China. 53x18cm