18TH-19TH CENTURY

The common name xiangji reflects the traditional use as a platform for burning fragrant incense. In addition to this primary use, stands were used to elevate decorative objects such as scholar's rocks, potted plants or vases. The vertical slots below the crossing stretchers is an unusual feature, but they appear to be original to the design. A Qing-dynasty painting depicts four servants carrying a red lacquer incense stand, which supports a scroll, on palanquin poles in a procession. (Fig. 1) The robust construction, seen in the use of cross-stretchers, and the vertical slots suggest that the present stand may have been used to carry ceremonial objects in a ritual ceremony or while on parade.
A pair of carved red lacquer incense stands, dated to the Qianlong period, each with cabriole legs and finely carved top was sold at Christie's Paris, 21-22 June 2016, lot 127.