Search 0
47,865  PAGES BROWSED TODAY PAGES TODAY • 112 ANTIQUES UPLOADED TODAYNEW ARRIVALS
Sorted by
Per page
DEALER LOGIN
Selling Antiques Logo
0
Saved
GIFTSNEW
112 ITEMS ADDED TODAY
Home
Return
Dealer Login
500+ Shops
Dealers
Newly Added
0
Saved
Sort Order
Items Per Page
sellingantiques.co.uk
Browse Categories
Sort order
Relevant Links
Items per page
ID #SA1208639
FOR SALE
£2,850
Email Phone
Save
A Fine Chinese 18th Century Bronze Bombé Censer Qing Dynasty (Circa 1780)
For sale by Sandbanks Antiques
for sale €3,335     $3,620
£2,850
Sandbanks Antiques

Sandbanks Antiques

Sellingantiques Verified Since Jan 2025
Browse dealers 205 items
  • About Us
    Specialising in antique silver, gold boxes, gold coins and objects de vertu. Rare fine-quality imperial chinese porcelain, jades, cloisonné
Relevant Links
Id #SA1208639
PDF SHARE
SAVE

A Fine Chinese 18th Century Bronze Bombé Censer Qing Dynasty (Circa 1780)

18th century
Description

A Fine 18th Century Chinese Bronze Bombé Censer – Large 20cm Format – 845g – Rare Scholar’s Aesthetic – 6-Character Xuande Mark

An imposing and masterfully cast Chinese bronze censer of classic Bombé form, dating to the 18th Century (Qing Dynasty). This vessel represents the height of "Scholar’s Taste," featuring a rare, expansive 20cm width and the sophisticated, compressed profile highly prized by the Qing literati.

Architecture & Dimensions

Total Width (Handle to Handle): 20cm. approx

Height: 7.2cm. approx

Rim Diameter (Top Opening): 12cm. approx

Weight: 845g. The relationship between the 12cm flared rim and the massive 20cm span creates a powerful, low-slung silhouette. This is a heavy-gauge, refined casting that stands significantly above common export-quality examples.

"Red Gold" Colour: Under natural light, the bronze displays a magnificent, deep reddish-gold glow, characteristic of high-copper alloys used in the 1700s.

Surface Integrity: The exterior exhibits a natural "orange peel" texture and fine atmospheric micro-pitting—evidence of honest aging over two centuries.

Interior: The interior is an untouched "time capsule," featuring original sand-casting "rain marks" and deep, authentic mineralized oxidation.

The Handles: The twin loop "Bridge" handles are integrated with seamless precision, flowing from the rim with an architectural tautness found only in elite early Qing workshop pieces.

Character Marks: The base features a crisp, deeply recessed six-character Da Ming Xuan De Nian Zhi mark. The calligraphy is rendered in high-relief Kaishu (Regular Script), perfectly centred and professionally executed.

The Base: The circular foot shows genuine "shelf-wear" and softening to the edges, consistent with 200+ years of use.

Collector’s Summary

Provenance The G S. May Esquire Private Collection, London - Sticker Number 346

This is a superior, large-format bronze that possesses a clear, resonant, bell-like chime when struck. Its sophisticated 20cm proportions, masterful handle joinery, and magnificent natural patina make it a definitive example for the serious collector of Early Qing Dynasty bronzes.

Physical Dimensions
Height
7.2cm (2.83")
Declaration

Sandbanks Antiques has dated this Chinese Bronze Bombe Censer to the 18th Century.

Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Reference
SA1208639
Description
A Fine 18th Century Chinese Bronze Bombé Censer – Large 20cm Format – 845g – Rare Scholar’s Aesthetic – 6-Character Xuande Mark
“
An imposing and masterfully cast Chinese bronze censer of classic Bombé form, dating to the 18th Century (Qing Dynasty).
Sandbanks Antiques

This vessel represents the height of "Scholar’s Taste," featuring a rare, expansive 20cm width and the sophisticated, compressed profile highly prized by the Qing literati.

fig 1. An 18th-century Chinese bronze censer featuring a rounded bombe body, flared rim, splayed foot ring, and two loop handles.
fig 1. A Fine Chinese 18th Century Bronze Bombé Censer Qing Dynasty (Circa 1780)

Architecture & Dimensions

Total Width (Handle to Handle): 20cm. approx

Height: 7.2cm. approx

Rim Diameter (Top Opening): 12cm. approx

Weight: 845g. The relationship between the 12cm flared rim and the massive 20cm span creates a powerful, low-slung silhouette. This is a heavy-gauge, refined casting that stands significantly above common export-quality examples.

fig 2. An 18th-century Chinese bronze censer featuring a rounded bombe body, flared rim, splayed foot ring, and two loop handles.
fig 2. A Fine Chinese 18th Century Bronze Bombé Censer Qing Dynasty (Circa 1780)

"Red Gold" Colour: Under natural light, the bronze displays a magnificent, deep reddish-gold glow, characteristic of high-copper alloys used in the 1700s.

Surface Integrity: The exterior exhibits a natural "orange peel" texture and fine atmospheric micro-pitting—evidence of honest aging over two centuries.

fig 3. An 18th-century Chinese bronze censer featuring a rounded bombe body, flared rim, splayed foot ring, and two loop handles.
fig 3. A Fine Chinese 18th Century Bronze Bombé Censer Qing Dynasty (Circa 1780)

Interior: The interior is an untouched "time capsule," featuring original sand-casting "rain marks" and deep, authentic mineralized oxidation.

The Handles: The twin loop "Bridge" handles are integrated with seamless precision, flowing from the rim with an architectural tautness found only in elite early Qing workshop pieces.

fig 4. An 18th-century Chinese bronze censer featuring a rounded bombe body, flared rim, splayed foot ring, and two loop handles.
fig 4. A Fine Chinese 18th Century Bronze Bombé Censer Qing Dynasty (Circa 1780)

Character Marks: The base features a crisp, deeply recessed six-character Da Ming Xuan De Nian Zhi mark. The calligraphy is rendered in high-relief Kaishu (Regular Script), perfectly centred and professionally executed.

fig 5. An 18th-century Chinese bronze censer featuring a rounded bombe body, flared rim, splayed foot ring, and two loop handles.
fig 5. A Fine Chinese 18th Century Bronze Bombé Censer Qing Dynasty (Circa 1780)

The Base: The circular foot shows genuine "shelf-wear" and softening to the edges, consistent with 200+ years of use.

Collector’s Summary

Provenance The G S. May Esquire Private Collection, London - Sticker Number 346

fig 6. An 18th-century Chinese bronze censer featuring a rounded bombe body, flared rim, splayed foot ring, and two loop handles.
fig 6. A Fine Chinese 18th Century Bronze Bombé Censer Qing Dynasty (Circa 1780)

This is a superior, large-format bronze that possesses a clear, resonant, bell-like chime when struck. Its sophisticated 20cm proportions, masterful handle joinery, and magnificent natural patina make it a definitive example for the serious collector of Early Qing Dynasty bronzes.

Height
7.2cm (2.83")
Date of Manufacture

Sandbanks Antiques has dated this Chinese Bronze Bombe Censer to the 18th Century.

Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Ref
SA1208639
Sandbanks Antiques
Sandbanks Antiques
Sellingantiques verified Since Jan 2025

Specialising in antique silver, gold boxes, gold coins and objects de vertu. Rare fine-quality imperial chinese porcelain, jades, cloisonné

Dealer Profile

You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Sandbanks Antiques Profile Page

PDF SHARE
SAVE
An 18th-century Chinese bronze censer featuring a rounded bombe body, flared rim, splayed foot ring, and two loop handles.
1 / 19
Archive I An 18th-century Chinese bronze censer featuring a rounded bombe body, flared rim, splayed foot ring, and two loop handles.

A Fine Chinese 18th Century Bronze Bombé Censer Qing Dynasty (Circa 1780)

Archive II An 18th-century Chinese bronze censer featuring a rounded bombe body, flared rim, splayed foot ring, and two loop handles. View II
Archive III An 18th-century Chinese bronze censer featuring a rounded bombe body, flared rim, splayed foot ring, and two loop handles. View III
Archive IV An 18th-century Chinese bronze censer featuring a rounded bombe body, flared rim, splayed foot ring, and two loop handles. View IV
Archive V An 18th-century Chinese bronze censer featuring a rounded bombe body, flared rim, splayed foot ring, and two loop handles. View V
Archive VI An 18th-century Chinese bronze censer featuring a rounded bombe body, flared rim, splayed foot ring, and two loop handles. View VI
Archive VII An 18th-century Chinese bronze censer featuring a rounded bombe body, flared rim, splayed foot ring, and two loop handles. View VII
Archive VIII An 18th-century Chinese bronze censer featuring a rounded bombe body, flared rim, splayed foot ring, and two loop handles. View VIII
Archive IX An 18th-century Chinese bronze censer featuring a rounded bombe body, flared rim, splayed foot ring, and two loop handles. View IX
Archive X An 18th-century Chinese bronze censer featuring a rounded bombe body, flared rim, splayed foot ring, and two loop handles. View X
Archive XI An 18th-century Chinese bronze censer featuring a rounded bombe body, flared rim, splayed foot ring, and two loop handles. View XI
Archive XII An 18th-century Chinese bronze censer featuring a rounded bombe body, flared rim, splayed foot ring, and two loop handles. View XII
Archive XIII An 18th-century Chinese bronze censer featuring a rounded bombe body, flared rim, splayed foot ring, and two loop handles. View XIII
Archive XIV An 18th-century Chinese bronze censer featuring a rounded bombe body, flared rim, splayed foot ring, and two loop handles. View XIV
Archive XV An 18th-century Chinese bronze censer featuring a rounded bombe body, flared rim, splayed foot ring, and two loop handles. View XV
Archive XVI An 18th-century Chinese bronze censer featuring a rounded bombe body, flared rim, splayed foot ring, and two loop handles. View XVI
Archive XVII An 18th-century Chinese bronze censer featuring a rounded bombe body, flared rim, splayed foot ring, and two loop handles. View XVII
Archive XVIII An 18th-century Chinese bronze censer featuring a rounded bombe body, flared rim, splayed foot ring, and two loop handles. View XVIII
Archive XIX An 18th-century Chinese bronze censer featuring a rounded bombe body, flared rim, splayed foot ring, and two loop handles. View XIX
Enlarged Archival View
Sandbanks Antiques

Sandbanks Antiques
Telephone 07889 139677
Location
Sandbanks
Poole
Dorset
United Kingdom

By appointment only in Poole or London.
Dealer Profile Page sellingantiques.co.uk/sandbanks
Verified Since Jan 2025
Items For Sale 205
Items Sold 86
Sandbanks Antiques
Sandbanks Antiques
Verified Since Jan 2025
View Dealer Info
Location: Sandbanks, Poole, Dorset, United Kingdom, , By appointment only in Poole or London.
Profile: sellingantiques.co.uk/sandbanks
Verified
Jan 2025
For Sale
205
Sold
86
An 18th-century Chinese bronze censer featuring a rounded bombe body, flared rim, splayed foot ring, and two loop handles.
A Fine Chinese 18th Century Bronze Bombé Censer Qing Dynasty (Circa 1780)
Ref: SA1208639
An 18th-century Chinese bronze censer featuring a rounded bombe body, flared rim, splayed foot ring, and two loop handles.
Detail View 1
Detail View 2
Detail View 3
Detail View 5
Detail View 6
Detail View 7
Detail View 8
Detail View 9
Detail View 10
Detail View 11
Detail View 12
Detail View 13
Detail View 14
Detail View 15
Detail View 16
Detail View 17
Detail View 18
Detail View 19
Archival Detail

Strictly Vetted Dealers

Every single antique dealer on our platform is individually approved by our internal team. We verify their professional trade history, ethical standards, and photographic quality to ensure a secure, high-standard buying environment. Upon joining, every dealer agrees to a strict 9-point code of conduct. While issues can occasionally arise, our dealers typically resolve them swiftly and directly with the buyer. In fact, since our founding in 2002, Sellingantiques has only had to step in to help resolve an issue on roughly five occasions—a true testament to the quality of our dealers and their dedication to your happiness.

Secure Transit

Our dealers are highly experienced in packing and shipping fragile, high-value antiques. Because you are in direct contact with the dealer, you will be able to easily go through all available shipping and insurance options together to ensure your item arrives safely.

The Sustainable Choice

Antiques are the ultimate green purchase. By choosing historical pieces over newly manufactured goods, you completely eliminate the carbon footprint of modern mass production while preserving exceptional, timeless craftsmanship.

Cataloguer’s note

Written by Sellingantiques from the dealer’s photographs and listing
  • ObjectCensers & Incense Burners
  • Period18th century
  • StyleQing Dynasty
  • MaterialBronze
  • ColourGolden Bronze
  • MotifsBombe body, Loop handles, Splayed foot ring, Flared rim
  • SizeH 7.2 cm (3 in)

This Chinese bronze censer dates from the eighteenth century during the Qing Dynasty and embodies a classic scholar's aesthetic. The piece is formed with a rounded bombé body, a flared rim, a splayed foot ring, and two loop handles integrated with seamless precision. The metal displays a rich golden-bronze colour with a deep reddish-gold glow, complemented by a natural orange peel texture and micro-pitting across the exterior. The base stands at 7.2 cm high, supporting a heavy-gauge vessel designed with a low-slung, compressed profile. In a modern interior, this censer serves as a refined decorative object suitable for display on a bookshelf or within a gentleman's library. The interior retains original sand-casting rain marks and mineralized oxidation, while the base features a deeply recessed six-character mark executed in regular script. The circular foot exhibits genuine shelf-wear along the softened edges, reflecting over two centuries of honest age and handling. This substantial scholar's vessel offers a sophisticated display option for collectors of early Qing dynasty metalwork.

FAQs

A Qing Dynasty bronze bombe censer is an incense vessel produced during the Qing era in China, characterised by a convex, swelling body, flared rim, and side handles. These vessels were traditionally used in religious rituals, ancestral worship, and scholars studies.

18th-century Chinese censers were primarily cast using the lost-wax casting technique from heavy bronze alloys, often containing copper, tin, zinc, and lead. The surface was frequently patinated through chemical processes or gilding to achieve varying shades of golden, brown, or dark tone finishes.

Authentic pieces generally exhibit balanced proportions, precise casting details, and a substantial, dense weight. Examiners inspect bottom cast apocryphal or reign marks, natural surface wear, and the presence of genuine age-related oxidisation inside the rim and base.

A bronze censer functions as a decorative tabletop object on a bookshelf, sideboard, or executive desk. It pairs effectively with dark wood surfaces, minimalist ceramics, and curated art books to add texture and historical context to contemporary spaces.

Dust the item gently with a soft, dry microfibre cloth to clean the surface without altering the patina. Avoid applying abrasive metal polishes, harsh detergents, or water, as these can strip historical surface finishes and cause damage to the metal.
items
Add keywords to the filter
Price
£100
£250000
Era
Period
Style
Material
Origin
Stock Location
Recently Added
Online Payments
Categories