QIANLONG PERIOD (1736-1795)

Mythical beasts of this form are known as luduan, legendary creatures capable of distinguishing between good and evil. Because of these qualities incense burners of this form were placed beside or in front of the imperial throne to symbolise that the emperor, protected by these animals, was a virtuous and intelligent ruler.
A luduan-form censer of similar size to the present lot also dated to the Qianlong period was sold at Christie's Hong Kong, 28 May 2014, lot 3538.