Handmade in Tibet from coppered brass, this very large incense burner consists of a pierced and footed pot with lid and an inner tin used to hold burning coals and incense. Topped with a representation of a lotus bud and flower, ringed with stylised viswa vajras, lotus buds, cloud spandrels and a frieze of running swastikas (symbolising good luck and abundance of good things). Hand beaten metal, mid 20th century. This piece has had substantial use and was collected in the 1980's by Bernard Heaphy in a remote village in the foothills of Mount Everest. It was purchased straight out of a villager's home. The owners of the burner originated in Tibet.

Measurements: 31 cm (12") height x 17 cm (6.75") diameter at widest point