AN EXCEPTIONAL AND IMPORTANT LARGE HUANGHUALI CIRCULAR INCENSE STAND

Distinguished by its dynamic carving, robust shape, and size, this magnificent circular incense stand is arguably one of the best extant Ming-period incense stands in huanghuali. The depth and dynamism of the carving showcases the genius and mastery of the carver, most clearly seen on the thickly-beaded and cusped apron carved with chilong. The striding bodies of the chilong have a strong sense of movement and action. Each leg extends from the apron and is set with a leonine face at top, the leg descending in an elegant faceted cabriole curve and terminates in claw feet. From each tightly-furled paw, razor-sharp claws extend and wrap around a small ball foot. The attention and sensitivity paid to the carved decoration and the graceful movement of the form, seen in the subtly shaped legs, leaves no doubt that this was commissioned by person of importance and status.

The present incense stand is larger than its few published counterparts, measuring 28 ¾ in. (73 cm.) in diameter. The thickness of the top frame and the robust construction, seen in the thick aprons, waist and interlocking stretchers joining the legs suggest the stand held an object of significant weight. The realization of this sophisticated design required exceptional technical expertise and experienced woodworkers.

A hexagonal huanghuali incense stand with similarly faceted, cabriole legs terminating in ruyi-form feet and carved on the aprons with chilong was sold at Christie’s New York, 19 March 2021, lot 830. A five-legged circular huanghuali incense stand with cabriole legs and raised on a circular base, dated to the seventeenth century, formerly in the collection of the Museum of Classical Chinese Furniture, was sold in Rich Golden Hues and Graceful Forms – Classical Chinese Furniture from the Tseng Collection; Christie's Hong Kong, 29 November 2022, lot 2806. A three-legged incense stand, carved with stylized ruyi heads on the cabriole legs was sold in the Marie Theresa L. Virata Collection; Christie’s New York, 16 March 2017, lot 613.