Rare Antique Chinese Cloisonne Bronze Mythical Beast Censer Qing C1900 18cm 267g

An unusual and highly decorative Chinese cloisonné enamel and bronze mythical-beast vessel, attributed to the late Qing dynasty / early 20th century, circa 1900.

The vessel is modelled as a fantastic four-legged beast with an exceptionally characterful cast bronze head, prominent eyes and nostrils, scrolling brows and a broad tooth-filled mouth.

The body is extensively decorated in polychrome cloisonné enamel, predominantly on a vibrant turquoise ground, with scrolling and archaistic motifs in red, green, blue, yellow, pink and white, divided by copper-alloy cloisons.

One of the most distinctive features is the beast’s articulated lower jaw, which hinges downwards to form a large shallow tray projecting from the mouth. A substantial circular aperture, surrounded by a decorative petal-form bronze border, is positioned on the back.

The combination of the zoomorphic form and body aperture places the piece within the Chinese tradition of mythical-beast vessels and censers, although the precise original function of the unusual hinged jaw is uncertain and it is therefore catalogued conservatively.

The exposed bronze head is particularly well modelled and contrasts attractively with the brightly enamelled body. Further cloisonné decoration extends around the flanks, legs and hindquarters, giving the piece considerable visual interest from every angle.

Chinese craftsmen produced zoomorphic ritual and decorative vessels over many centuries, with fantastic animals frequently employed for censers and related objects. This example represents a particularly unusual interpretation of that tradition.

Previously catalogued as a Chinese Qing dynasty cloisonné enamel and bronze mythical beast, the construction, decoration and materials are consistent with a conservative late Qing / early 20th-century attribution.

Condition: Antique condition with considerable character and age-related wear. There are areas of enamel loss, flaking, cracking and pitting, including more noticeable losses around the upper and rear sections of the body. Further surface wear, oxidation, verdigris, deposits and rubbing are present to the bronze and copper-alloy elements. The hinged lower jaw remains present and operational. The piece has not been aggressively polished or restored. Please examine all photographs carefully as they form an important part of the condition report.

Origin: China

Period: Late Qing Dynasty / early 20th century

Date: Circa 1900

Material: Cloisonné enamel and bronze / copper alloy

Form: Mythical beast / zoomorphic vessel or censer

Length: Approx. 18cm

Weight: Approx. 267g

Special feature: Hinged articulated lower jaw/tray

A particularly characterful Chinese cloisonné object, combining vivid polychrome enamel decoration, expressive zoomorphic modelling and an unusual articulated construction.

REDUCED: Was £445, now £356. Save £89.

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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.