Pair Western Zhou (c.1111-770 BCE) Bronze Room Perfumers, Tested &Guaranteed. Though reminiscent of incense burners, these beautifully worked and possibly unique pierced Chinese bronzes appear to be the earliest known bronze room perfumers of any culture globally. Both the tops and bottoms are pierced. In-depth microscopy has revealed mineralized unburned fabric and wood on the interior of each of the bases. Not even a microscopic trace was found that would indicate that a metal container, used to collect ash, was ever inside or in contact with the exterior bottom. This evidence, and the presence of the unburned organic matter on the interiors, combines to form one of the most convincing arguments that these striking artifacts are perfumers rather than censers.
Bronze perfumers probably contained a cloth or other material that had been soaked in perfume, or they may have held a form of potpourri. Obviously, these virtually unique artifacts were designed to provide fragrance for a room rather than an individual. Remarkably, the patina on this fine pair of bronzes has provided not only a visual delight but a wealth of information as their use and history. Microscopic, mineralogical and metallographic reports available. Several small breaks in the pierced work are professionally restored.

Dimension: 7 3/4" square & 8 3/4" square (19.7cm & 22.2cm).

PROVENANCE: Important Virginia Private Collection.

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Good Condition. Condition reports and additional photographs are provided by request as a courtesy to our clients, as such any condition report is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. The absence of a condition report does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free of defects, imperfections, restoration, wear and tear, or the effects of aging. Madison Square Gallery shall have no responsibility for any error or omission, additionally all lots are sold 'As Is' and in accordance with the conditions of sale.