Chinese Five Blessings Brass Brazier, C. 1850

Description

Filled with burning coals, this exquisitely crafted 19th-century brazier once warmed the cold hands of a wealthy woman on a … more Filled with burning coals, this exquisitely crafted 19th-century brazier once warmed the cold hands of a wealthy woman on a winter night in northern China. The brazier is hand-wrought of white brass in a subtle gourd form, with two hinged handles and an intricately pierced lid. Surrounding a central shou character, five bats fly with outstretched wings , representing the Five Blessings of old age, wealth, health, virtue, and peace. less