Fire-gilt repousse. China, Qing
Ding were possibly the most important bronze vessels in ancient times. The example at hand offers rather accentuated embellishments and was also intended as a censer. Three curved pods emerging from elephant heads with raised trunks, adjoining the lower body. Scattered animals on the sides, a domed cover with floral decorations and partly in openwork, also showing lingzhi (longevity mushrooms). The finial is a reclining elephant wearing a shabraque. Green patina.
HEIGHT 20,8CM, DIAM. 23,6 CM
From the collection of a former Austrian diplomat, acquired in the 1990’s in Beijing