Incense Box (Doop Dhani) with Filigree

Incense box worked in filigree, with set colored stones and elaborate ornamental decoration.

The rectangular box is constructed as a closed container with a removable lid. Inside, a metal support holds the incense sticks and allows for even burning. Small openings in the lid allow the fragrant smoke to rise from the box.

The body is made of copper and worked in filigree. Fine wires are shaped into spiral forms, filled with small arched elements, and assembled into continuous patterns. Within the ornamentation, colored stones are set to form floral motifs. 

The work follows established iconographic traditions of vajrayana art in the Kathmandu Valley, in which form, symbolic meaning, and ornament are brought together in a balanced composition.

Incense box, Doop Dhani

copper, decorated with fine filigree, gold- and silver-plated, set with colored stones. The object is patinated. Handcrafted in Nepal.
 

• Height: 4.3" / 11 cm
• Width: 11.4" / 29 cm
• Depth: 11 cm / 4.3"
• Weight: 1,328 g

NOTE
The silver layer on the inside of the lid may discolor from burning incense. The object consists of two parts: the box and the lid.