Chinese Elephant Head Bronze Censer with Putai Figure
You must be a subscriber, and be logged in to view price and dealer details.
Subscribe Now to view actual auction price for this item
When you subscribe, you have the option of setting the currency in which to display prices to $Au, $US, $NZ or Stg.
- Bronze - An alloy of copper and tin, traditionally in the proportions of about 9 parts of copper to 1 part of tin.
The discovery of bronze in Western Asia in the 4th century enabled people to create metal objects which were superior to those previoulsy possible because of its strength and hardness, and it has been used throughout the world for weapons, coins, tools, statuary and other decorative items.
It is very fluid in a molten state, and its hardness, strength when set, and non-corrosive properties makes it most suitable for casting sculpture. - Floral Swag / Garland / Festoon - Floral swags are a decorative motif often used in the ornamentation of various objects, such as silverware, glassware, and furniture. The term "swag" refers to a garland or wreath of flowers, foliage, or other decorative elements, which is usually arranged in a loop or curve.
Floral swags can be found in a variety of decorative styles, from ornate Baroque and Rococo designs to more naturalistic Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles. They are often used to add a touch of elegance, refinement, or whimsy to an object, and can be seen on a range of items from chandeliers and candlesticks to picture frames and tea sets.
In the decoration of silver objects, floral swags are often used to accentuate the curves and lines of the piece, and to add visual interest to the surface. Similarly, on glass objects, floral swags may be used to frame or highlight a particular area of the object, or to add a touch of color and delicacy.
On furniture, floral swags can be found on a variety of pieces, from cabinets and armoires to chairs and sofas. They are often used to enhance the lines and curves of the furniture, and can be used to create a sense of movement and flow in the design.
Overall, floral swags are a versatile decorative element that can be adapted to a range of styles and applications, and have been used in the decoration of various objects throughout history.
This item has been included into following indexes:
Visually similar items
A c.1900 Japanese carved ivory tripod lidded censer, the tall lid surmounted with shishi and pup, the four captured ring handles issuing from shishi masks, the ovoid body with deep carved dominant panels including dragons amongst scrolling crowds and mysti
A George IV silver spirit kettle on stand, the baluster coffee pot form with elegant ribbed panels, carved wood melon form finial and handle with acanthus leaf thumbpiece, the conforming stand with shell form feet and original burner. London 1828 by Richar
A bronze Chinese censer, early to mid 20th century, of ovoid form raised on zoomorphic tripod feet and with chilong handles, and having a pierced dome with a dog of fo finial, the body with ruyi carrying horse riders surrounded by coins, possibly the image
A large Japanese bronze and champleve censer, Meiji period, 44 cm high.