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Lot Essay
Braziers of this large type were not only decorative but were made to be used, as they were the most convenient form of heating in the Imperial palaces. Made to hold coal these braziers ranged from large vessels standing on three elephant-head or lion-mask and paw supports, like the current example, to simple cages the size of a water melon.
Compare the pair of massive Imperial cloisonné enamel covered braziers from the C. Ruxton and Audrey B. Love Collection with similar pierced gilt-bronze panels of bats in flight amidst vaporous clouds, and large finials cast as coiled dragons, but supported on three elephant-head supports, sold in these rooms 20 October 2004, lot 354.
Compare the pair of massive Imperial cloisonné enamel covered braziers from the C. Ruxton and Audrey B. Love Collection with similar pierced gilt-bronze panels of bats in flight amidst vaporous clouds, and large finials cast as coiled dragons, but supported on three elephant-head supports, sold in these rooms 20 October 2004, lot 354.