백자 향로 중국 청|白磁 香爐 中國 淸|Incense burner

Art Historical Context

This elegant incense burner, crafted in China during the Qing dynasty (4–1911) in the late 18 to first half of the 19 century, exemplifies the period's mastery of porcelain artistry. Standing 10¼ inches tall with its cover, it was designed for burning incense in domestic altars, temples, or studios, where fragrant smoke symbolized offerings to ancestors, deities, or for meditation. Acquired by the Metropolitan Museum of Art through public subscription in 1879 it reflects early Western fascination with Chinese ceramics. The burner's white porcelain body is vividly transformed by a red flambé g...