Bottle for incense tools

Attributed to Hu Wenming Chinese
17th century
Not on view
Implements commonly used for burning incense included a box, a burner, a flat-bowled spoon and tongs, and a vase for storing these utensils. The burners are often modeled after archaic bronze vessels. Although it is not clear if the three Chinese objects displayed here (2015.500.6.22–.24) originally formed a set, all are inscribed with the name of the artist, Hu Wenming, and exhibit the same decorative technique.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • 晚明 胡文明款銅鎏金香瓶
  • Title: Bottle for incense tools
  • Artist: Attributed to Hu Wenming (Chinese, active late 16th–early 17th century)
  • Period: Ming dynasty (1368–1644)
  • Date: 17th century
  • Culture: China
  • Medium: Parcel gilt copper alloy, silver inlay
  • Dimensions: H. 3 7/8 in. (9.8 cm)
  • Classification: Metalwork
  • Credit Line: Gift of Florence and Herbert Irving, 2015
  • Object Number: 2015.500.6.24
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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