About this artwork
During the Han dynasty, fantastical beliefs in immortality and exotic lands inspired the earliest three-dimensional landscapes. The conical lid of this incense burner, shaped like towering peaks, is associated with the mountainous Isles of the Blessed. These islands were described as the realm of immortal beings (xian) in the myth, superstition, and magic widespread in Han Dynasty Religion. Fragrant smoke wafting through holes in the lid of this incense burner would evoke such a mist-shrouded utopia.
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On View
- Asian Art, Gallery 133
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Title
- Mountain-Shaped Incense Burner (Boshan Xianglu)
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Origin
- China
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Date
- 99 BC–99 AD
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Medium
- Bronze
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Dimensions
- H. 21.3 cm (8 3/8 in.); diam. 19.4 cm (7 1/8 in.)
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Credit Line
- Lucy Maud Buckingham Collection
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Reference Number
- 1926.1864
Extended information about this artwork
Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email .
