Material: Copper. Nickel-plated. Alloy

Size: Diameter about 9.5 cm / Height about 11.5 cm

Narrative:

An incense burner, also known as a fumigation burner, is a container used to burn incense and has profound cultural and religious significance. Its history can be traced back to China's Spring and Autumn Period, and it has shown unique designs and uses in different cultures.

Origin and evolution

Incense burners first appeared in the Spring and Autumn Period, when they were mostly used in sacrificial activities. By the Warring States Period, the craftsmanship of making incense burners had become extremely sophisticated, such as the bronze incense burner with a phoenix holding a ring unearthed from the Yongcheng Ruins in Baoji City, Shaanxi Province. During the Han Dynasty, incense burners became more popular and ceramic incense burners appeared. Some were even painted, such as the painted ceramic incense burners unearthed from the Mawangdui Han Tomb.

In the middle of the Western Han Dynasty, the Boshan incense burner became the representative shape of incense burners. Its name comes from the legendary fairy mountain "Boshan" on the sea. The design of the Boshan stove imitates the shape of a fairy mountain. When burning incense, smoke floats out from the hollow patterns on the stove cover, creating a fairyland-like atmosphere.

Cultural significance

Incense burners play an important role in religious rituals, especially in Buddhism and Taoism. Believers insert incense into incense burners during sacrifices, and the burning smoke is believed to purify the environment and convey their prayers. The design of incense burners also varies according to religious needs, such as the lying incense burner of Buddhism and the hand warmer of Taoism.

In addition, the shape and material of the incense burner often reflect the craftsmanship and cultural taste of the time. For example, the shapes of incense burners in the Tang Dynasty tended to be more diverse and the workmanship was more sophisticated, and there were even incense bags that could be placed in bedding.

Legends and Stories

The design of incense burners is often connected to mythological stories. For example, the Boshan incense burner was inspired by the legend of the fairy mountain. These fairy mountains are believed to be the place where immortals live. The smoke from the incense burners symbolizes the connection with the fairyland and embodies the ancient people's pursuit of immortality and spiritual freedom.

The incense burner is not only a practical tool, but also a cultural artwork that carries people's yearning for a better life.