Censer 16th-17th century

This bronze censer was made by Hu Wenming. The lack of a date invites us to consider its timeless qualities. It seems that it was primarily made for scholarly appreciation. The form is simple and the bronze material creates an antique aesthetic. The images of dragons and qilin symbolize power, divinity, and good omens in Chinese culture, and the cloud patterns suggests it's a sacred object. Hu Wenming was known for his work in bronze during the Ming dynasty in China, when there was a revival of interest in classical forms and craftsmanship. One can imagine that this piece was made for the personal enjoyment of a wealthy patron. The museum context invites us to study this object more closely. By studying the art and social history of the Ming Dynasty we can learn more about the cultural values that shaped this piece and determine how it was circulated amongst elite society at the time.