Chinese Bronze Scholar Riding Donkey Censer

A Chinese bronze two-piece figural incense burner or censer, depicting a traditionally robed scholar or traveler seated upon a saddled donkey with its head lowered. The rider wears a tall ceremonial-style hat and flowing robes, while the donkey features carefully modeled facial details, decorative harness fittings, and an ornamental saddle blanket. The figure incorporates an opening on the reverse and a hollow projecting element at the front, consistent with its intended use as an incense burner. The warm brown patina and distinctive sculptural composition reflect traditional Chinese decorative metalwork, with the donkey-riding scholar a familiar subject in Chinese art and literature. The rider and donkey form a removable two-piece construction. Measures: 6" H x 4-3/4" W x 2-3/4" D. Provenance: From the Estate of Carmine Vito “Tod” Todisco (1930–2025), founder and CEO of Northern Plastics Corp., a Syracuse-area manufacturer specializing in fiberglass furniture and commercial products. Todisco was also a collector of cultural artifacts,