Pair Chinese Bronze Dragon Censers with Qianlong Marks, Late Qing C.1900

A striking matched pair of Chinese bronze tripod censers and covers, dating to the late Qing dynasty, circa 1900, each bearing an apocryphal four-character Qianlong reign mark to the underside.

Of compact archaistic form, each censer is raised upon three feet and fitted with a removable pierced cover surmounted by a boldly modelled coiled dragon finial amongst scrolling cloud forms.

The bodies are decorated with stylised archaistic motifs derived from ancient Chinese ritual bronzes, reflecting the enduring Qing dynasty taste for earlier bronze forms and decoration.

Particularly noteworthy are the four-character marks cast in relief within recessed rectangular reserves to the bases. These read:

乾隆年製 — Qianlong Nian Zhi

meaning “Made during the Qianlong reign.”

The Qianlong Emperor reigned from 1736–1795. On stylistic and manufacturing grounds, however, these marks are considered apocryphal or reverential rather than period reign marks, and the censers are conservatively attributed to the later Qing dynasty.

The bronzes display attractive naturally aged brown surfaces with areas of darker patination, verdigris and oxidation within the recesses, enhancing the modelling and giving the pair considerable character.

Their survival as a matched pair, together with the dragon finials and Qianlong marks, makes them particularly appealing examples of later Qing archaistic bronze work.

Condition: Good antique condition overall with surface wear, rubbing, oxidation, verdigris and minor casting irregularities consistent with age. One dragon finial exhibits somewhat heavier surface oxidation. Wear is visible around the rims, feet and raised decoration. Please examine all photographs carefully as they form an important part of the condition report.

Origin: China

Period: Late Qing Dynasty

Date: Circa 1900

Material: Bronze / copper alloy

Height: Approximately 7.6cm (3 inches) each

Marks: Four-character Qianlong Nian Zhi (乾隆年製) marks to bases, considered apocryphal/reverential

An attractive and characterful pair of Chinese bronze censers combining archaistic decoration, auspicious dragon finials and Qianlong reign marks.

About CKB LTD.

CKB LTD. was formed in 2010 and operates as an independent dealer, with a focus on carefully selected works offered through private sale and online platforms.

The company emphasizes informed attribution, clear descriptions, and responsible market practice. Objects are evaluated through visual examination, comparative research, and reference to established art-historical frameworks, with attention to condition, authenticity, and context.

CKB LTD. works with private collectors, dealers, and international buyers, and conducts transactions in accordance with standard international art market conventions. Each item is offered as a collectible work of art, with transparency regarding condition and attribution, and with respect for the nature of historical objects.

Condition, Attribution & Authenticity Notice

This work is offered as an antique object based on visual examination and comparative stylistic analysis. All statements regarding age, origin, attribution, and period represent informed scholarly opinion and are not guarantees of absolute fact.

Condition descriptions are based on external observation only. The interior, underside of the base, and any internal cavities or consecration materials have not been examined. No technical analysis (including XRF, thermoluminescence, or metallurgical testing) has been performed.

As is typical with antique bronzes, minor casting irregularities, surface wear, rubbing to high points, oxidation, and age-related imperfections are present and should be expected. No visible repairs or restorations are observed from the available views; however, the absence of hidden restorations cannot be guaranteed.

All items are sold as is, and prospective buyers are encouraged to examine the photographs carefully and request additional information prior to purchase. By bidding or purchasing, the buyer acknowledges acceptance of the item?s condition and the nature of antique works.

International Buyers ? Important Information

This item is an antique work of art over 100 years old and is sold as a collectible object. Buyers are responsible for any import duties, VAT, GST, customs fees, or local taxes imposed by their country.

The seller does not provide CITES documentation, export permits, or cultural property certificates unless explicitly stated. Please verify import requirements with your local customs authority prior to purchase.

All shipments are professionally packed and fully insured. Title and risk pass to the buyer upon shipment.

This work is offered in accordance with standard international art market practices.