Fine Byzantine Bronze Hanging Censer w/ Chains

**First Time At Auction**

Ancient Near East, Holy Land, early Byzantine Empire, ca. mid-5th to 6th century CE. A wonderful cast-bronze censer of a multi-tiered, drop-form profile with dozens of perforations forming broad circles on the body as well as a zigzagging pattern on the upper body. A trio of thick wire loops are fed through three pierced cuboid lugs and suspend the vessel in the air with three strands of chain links. The deep form of the censer suggests it was used to hold large quantities of incense, and the flared rim enabled a lid to fit snugly within. A striking example used during religious ceremonies with lovely green and brown patina throughout. Size: 3.125" W x 5.125" H (7.9 cm x 13 cm); 23.125" H (58.7 cm) with chains extended.

Provenance: private J.H. collection, Beaverton, Oregon, USA, acquired in August 2016; ex-Artemis Gallery; ex-private New Jersey, USA collection, acquired around 1996

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#153280
Condition Report: Original lid missing. Chips to areas of rim and lower body, with minor separation to suspension rings and some chain links, and light encrustations. Nice earthen deposits and great patina throughout.