A censer is a vessel in which incense is burned, either to perfume the air or as part of religious ritual. In Christian churches the term usually refers to a thurible, a lidded metal bowl suspended on chains that is swung to spread fragrant smoke, while in Asia it more often describes a static burner of bronze, ceramic, jade or cloisonné used on altars and in scholars' studios.
Thuribles of brass, silver and gilt metal have been made in Europe since the Middle Ages, with pierced, often architectural covers, and many surviving examples are Victorian, from the period of the Gothic Revival and the high church movement. In China, incense burners were made in many forms, including tripod and quadripod vessels derived from ancient ritual bronzes, and examples bearing the Xuande mark were reproduced over many centuries. Japanese bronze censers of the Meiji period, often surmounted by animals or birds, were widely exported to the West. Collectors assess casting quality, patina, marks and condition, and the age of Asian bronzes in particular can be difficult to judge. Censers make atmospheric decorative objects on a mantelpiece or library table.
