Museum Updates
Bronze object reveals incense culture of ancient Lingnan
Updated: Apr 14, 2026
China Bound
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What could this intriguing bronze object with four connected square-mouthed, round-bottomed boxes be used for? It is actually an ancient incense burner unearthed from the tomb of Nanyue King Zhao Mo (176-125 BC) from the Western Han Dynasty (206 BC-AD 24).
Each compartment is separate, allowing four distinct fragrances to be burned at the same time, blending to create a unique aroma.
This innovative design, exclusively created in the royal court of the Nanyue Kingdom (203-111 BC), offers a glimpse into the refined incense culture of ancient Lingnan region in southern China. Collection: Nanyue King Museum in Guangzhou, Guangdong province.
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