East Asia, China, Qing Dynasty, ca. 19th century CE. A beautiful brass tripod censer cast with relief medallions of mythical creatures and elephant handles. The vessel rests on tripodal legs with stylized cicadas resting against the outer sides, with their wings and consisting of incised linear patterns. The vessel body is a globular shape with a wide mouth and slightly flared lip. The relief-molded exterior features a circular medallion containing stylized clouds and a soaring dragon, flanked by two chilongs - or hornless dragons - with sinuous bodies and legs. Twin elephant heads with curved trunks form the lugs or handles for the vessel. Tripods such as this were used in many Chinese homes for burning incense or holding offerings. This piece is a superb example with rich symbolism. Size: 7" Diameter x 7.125" H (17.8 cm x 18.1 cm) Provenance: private Morrison, Colorado, USA collection All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids. PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance), we will no longer ship most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia or Germany, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm. Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping. #163812