A vintage Asian incense burner or censer, heavily cast in iron and modelled as a mythical dragon with an expressive open mouth, curled tail and scrolling decoration throughout the body. The removable lid is topped with a small bird finial and opens to the hollow interior for burning incense. The cast iron has developed a richly aged surface with dark patination, areas of rust, oxidation and traces of blue-green colouring throughout. The head has an old repair with a prominent split running through the face and losses around the horn, as pictured, with further surface wear and oxidation consistent with age and use. A substantial and very heavy decorative piece.
26cmW x 12.5cmD x 20cmH
