This pair of incense-stick holders is probably made from metal or porcelain prototypes. They may be miniature versions of much larger geometric-shaped porcelain candlesticks. Enamelled candlesticks were made as altar sets during the late Ming period (1368-1644). They were most likely used with metal prickets for securing the candles. These pieces have a tiny aperture in the uppermost drip basin, which seem more appropriate for holding incense-sticks.Dehua, located on the southeast coast of Fujian province, is well known for its production of white porcelain, known to Europeans as 'blanc de Chine'. The earliest Dehua porcelain was produced as early as the 14th century but the production and quality of these porcelain peaked around the 17th and 18th centuries.
