Incense Burner With Qilin, Bronze, Japan, Meiji Era (1868-1912).

Large bronze patinated incense burner. The lid is topped with a figure of the mythical Qilin (Kirin). The body of the container is decorated with four scenes representing warriors and sages. In Chinese mythology, the Qilin is a creature composed of parts of other animals. For example, in the Qing dynasty, it was represented with the head of a dragon, the horns of a deer, the scales of a fish, the hooves of an ox and the tail of a lion. The appearance of a qilin was considered a good sign, a symbol of Heaven's favor. Indeed, the qilin only appeared where people lived honestly and where harmony reigned.

Japan, Meiji era (1868-1912). 

Height 30 cm, width 20 cm, depth 20 cm.

Very good condition, rubbed patina.

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