LARGE CHINESE CELADON PORCELAIN FANG DING CENSER Qing Dynasty Archaistic Antique

Description

EXQUISITE ANTIQUE CHINESE PORCELAIN FANG DING
Qing Dynasty (1644-1911)
Magnificent archaistic porcelain censer of rare and important form.
Of significant size, measuring approximately 14 inches tall and 12 inches wide. The slightly tapering, deep rectangular body is raised on four columnar supports each crowned with a fantastic
taotie
mask. The body is further moulded in high relief on each side bearing a large
taotie
mask, all displaying fine engraved detail. The corners are adorned with wide flanges, while the rim of the vessel is set with a pair of ornate U-shaped handles inset with additional stylized creatures. All coming together in spectacular harmony of design.
The censer is heavily potted and covered in a handsome green celadon glaze, pooling within the crevasses of the raised and incised decoration, which adds depth and artistic nuance. Dating to the late Qing Dynasty, this outstanding piece is in excellent antique condition, the sublime patina displaying very minor wear and occasional glaze crazing. Photos cannot do justice to this dramatic piece, however zoom in on the high definition images to view all of the splendid detail.
Porcelain Fang Ding of this size and quality are exceptionally rare, as most are held by museums or in private Asian collections. This large and magnificent example of stunning Chinese porcelain makes quite a statement from all the way across the room. A rare treasure, and a
n exquisite centerpiece
for the most discerning connoisseur of world class Chinese antiques.
See 12 photos above left. Click on large image to enlarge and utilize zoom feature.