Museum – Medieval Metalwork – Gothic Bronze Censer – High Middle Ages

Early 16th century

France

A rare Gothic-style bronze censer, resting on a circular pedestal and featuring architectural elements inspired by late-Medieval religious buildings.

The body, with a polygonal plan, is pierced by tall pointed-arch openings, separated by massive buttresses reminiscent of the facades of a Gothic chapel or bell tower. The upper section is crowned by an elegant, openwork pyramidal roof designed to promote air circulation and the escape of smoke.

The entire structure is fully disassemblable: the architectural section detaches from its base to allow for the insertion of charcoal and incense. This design indicates that the object was intended for regular liturgical use.

The beautiful dark brown patina, tinged with faint traces of verdigris, underscores the age of this piece. Despite some signs of wear and minor losses consistent with its age, this censer retains all the delicacy of its Gothic decoration. The suspension chains are now missing.

With its exquisite miniature craftsmanship and remarkable state of preservation, this censer is a beautiful example of religious goldsmithing from the High Middle Ages.

Dimensions:

Height: 21 cm

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