A cloisonne enamel censer
Mark and Period of Wanli
the vessel of rectangular section, raised on four curved legs issuing from lion masks, the two long sides depicting a pair of confronting dragons divided by a shou medallion interspersed with wan symbols, the shorter sides with a vase suspended from a beribboned chime flanked by detached flower sprays and below two upright arch handles, all reserved on a deep dark-blue ground, between a band of upright lappets and a keyfret border around the rim, the base enamelled with a six-character reign mark, the pierced wood cover with dragons in mutual pursuit of a 'flaming pearl', surmounted by a celadon jade 'bird' finial (2)
7 7/8 in., 20 cm