작품 상세

A cast bronze silver and copper-inlaid censer and stand Vietnam, Nguyen Dynasty,19th century Width across handles: 28 cm (11 in.) Height: 18 cm (7 1/8 in.) Mark: Inlaid in silver to the base with a two-character mark Fang Li (仿利). The censer is heavily cast with a compressed globular body rising to a short neck and an everted rim, flanked by a pair of upright loop handles decorated with stylized cloud scrolls. The exterior is finely inlaid in contrasting silver, copper, and gold-toned metals depicting a continuous narrative scene. The landscape features scholars and attendants engaged in leisure activities within a garden setting, amidst pavilions, pine trees, and rockwork, evoking a traditional literati atmosphere.The vessel rests on its original matching bronze stand, which features a waisted neck and a reticulated apron carved with openwork scrolling foliage, supported by ruyi-head form feet. The base of the censer bears a square cartouche containing a two-character mark inlaid in silver wire reading Fang Li (imitation of Li). (Dimensions: Width across handles: 28 cm (11 in.) Height: 18 cm (7 1/8 in.)) French private collection This censer exemplifies the high standard of bronze craftsmanship during the Nguyen Dynasty. Vietnamese bronzes of this period are distinct from their Chinese counterparts, often characterized by a specific 'chocolate' patination and intricate inlay work (known as casket work) that utilizes varying shades of metal to create a painterly effect, akin to ink on paper. The "Fang Li" mark is likely a workshop mark or an homage to a specific master craftsman, a practice common in the production of high-quality scholar's objects in the 19th century. The bronze boasts a rich, dark chocolate patina. The inlay remains largely intact with minor surface wear consistent with age and use. There are typical minute nicks to the extremities and slight oxidation traces to the interior of the vessel. The stand shows minor friction wear where the censer rests. Dimensions: Dimensions: Width across handles: 28 cm (11 in.) Height: 18 cm (7 1/8 in.)

재료

Bronze