This censer with an iridescent green glaze consists of nine separate pieces. In the centre of the circular basin is a central stand for the incense burner, over which is placed the stem of the burner, a bowl to hold incense and the lid of the burner. The four shallow saucers hold oil with curved stems which fit into openings spaced along the flat rim of the basin. The incense burner is of the "boshan lu" type with the lid moulded in the form of mountain peaks, representing the abode of Daoist Immortals. Perforations in the lid allow the release of smoke from aromatic herbs or incense placed in the burner.The practice of using lead-glazed burial wares had already started during the Han dynasty (206 BCE-220 CE). The glaze tradition continued into the Ming period.The custom was an ancient one. It is thought these wares were necessary to the deceased in the next world.
