Finely casted Chinese Qing Dynasty gilt bronze covered censer in model of deer carrying group of scrolls, cast resembling a make deer, seated on its four legs in relaxed position, raised neck with head slightly west facing, supported the pair broadly projected branching antlers. The front left foot reached upfront, giving a symmetrical balance to the forehead. The lid cast resembling a group of scholar scrolls, tied with flow draped ribbon, and nestled on the rectangular shabraque in scrolling relief motif. The deer effigy censer elegantly displayed upon a carved hardwood stand.

Mark on base, incised six script -KaiShu- character, YongZheng Reign Period of Great Qing.

Dimension: 10" L x 7-7/8" H

LOT NOTES:

In Chinese symbols, the deer symbolizes immortality and is the companion of Shuolao, the God of Longevity, while the inclusion of peaches and LingZhi fungus in the decoration is often a further symbolic of longevity. It also represents filial piety which comes from the folk tale of Zhou Yangzi. This is a story of a young boy who tries to get milk from a deer to cure his ailing father. To achieve his goal he wears deer skin and joins a deer herd to gather milk.

Excellent condition, with normal anomalies in nature, sign of stressed surface, minor scratch & dent. Surface traced wear to gilding. Normal, considering ages and wears.

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