Inspired by ancient auspicious animal forms traditionally believed to ward off evil and invite blessings, the present censer is masterfully carved as a recumbent mythical beast. The beast raises its head alertly, its expression imbued with dignity and vitality, while the powerful body rests firmly on four legs, conveying a sense of stability and restrained strength.
The back is surmounted by a movable overhead handle formed as a loose ring suspended from a pierced support, an ingenious feature that not only facilitates handling but also enlivens the composition. The body is meticulously decorated with finely engraved scrolling cloud motifs and archaistic patterns, the fluid lines and subtle variations demonstrating the Qing lapidary's sophisticated understanding of archaic forms and decorative traditions.
The stone is of an even white tone with a soft, lustrous polish. Areas of natural russet suffusion enhance the antique character of the piece and provide an attractive contrast to the smooth surface. Combining practical function with sculptural elegance, the censer would have served both as a vessel for the burning of incense and as an object of refined appreciation in the scholar's studio, embodying the aesthetic ideals of the cultivated literati.
The base is carved with "Qianlong Fang Gu" four-character mark.
清 白玉雕瑞獸形提梁卣 「乾隆年製」款
此器取古人以瑞酸胖邪納吉之意，器形作伏獸狀，獸首昂起，神態莊重 動，四足伏地，體態敦厚穩催。背負活環提梁，穿環部可轉動，設計巧妙，既便於提攜，亦增添動態趣味。獸身通體陰刻卷雲紋與装餅紋様，線條流暢，富層次變化，體現濟代玉雕對仿古造型與細膩紋飾的掌握與審美取向。
玉質溫潤細膩，抛光良，局部可見天然色沁，更添古雅之崩。此器兼具寶用性與陳設價值，可作香蒸之用，亦可置於書齋案頭，雅致消幽，别具文人清玩之趣。
11.3cm wide; 9cm high
Estimate $15,000 - $25,000
Overall in good condition.
The opinions expressed in the condition reports are a guide only and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Prospective buyers are encouraged to seek further information or request additional images during our pre-sale period where Leonard Joel staff are available for advice. Please note condition reports can be amended during the pre-sale period, so we strongly suggest any interested bidders check the published condition report available on the website before the auction commences. Leonard Joel makes no guarantee of the originality of mechanical or applied components. Absence of reference to such modifications does not imply that a lot is free from modifications.
Collection of a scholar.
Important Chinese & Asian Art
AUCTION
Sale: LJ8825
11:00am - 25 October 2026
Hawthorn
VIEWING
Thurs 22 - Sat 24 October, 11am - 5pm
2 Oxley Rd, Hawthorn VIC
CONTACT
Luke Guan
luke.guan@leonardjoel.com.au
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