Incense Box with Filigree

This incense box is a functional object of religious art from the Himalayan region. It is intended to hold incense and combines practical use with an elaborately executed ornamental structure.

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. Narrow openings in the lid allow for the controlled release of smoke.

The body is made of copper and executed in filigree technique. 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 lid, side panels, and base zone are worked all around; the object is executed consistently on all sides and intended for freestanding presentation.

The incense box brings together functional use and ornamental articulation in filigree technique and reflects the craft tradition of metal ritual objects from the Himalayan region.

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.