Ancient Incense Wares: Boshan Censers, fragrance Balls and Xuande Burners

Boshan censer

Popular in Han–Jin, its lid was carved as misty mountains; the gold-inlaid Boshan from Mancheng is a masterpiece.

Incense ball

Tang silver balls used a gimbal ring so scent never spilled when moved—exemplified by the grape-and-bird silver pouch from Famenxiang.

Xuande furnace

Cast in the Xuande era from imported copper, these Ming furnaces became the benchmark for later bronze censers.