Finely casted Chinese 18/19th C Qing Dynasty gilt bronze & semi-precious stones inlaid covered censer in model of a mythical beast Qilin, with bulbous deep vessel body, raised on four straight prominent legs leading to four-toe eagle claws foot, with the lid simulated the Qilin head. Eyes with thick eyelashes, manes that flow slightly upward and beards flow draped unto the rim. The muscled body shaped like an ox, decorated with gilt appearance and archaic Chinese motif in a various colorful. Fiercely facing forward, open mouth revealed the fang and teeth, raised ears, its ruyi shaped tail freely laid straight on the hip. Gilt covered all the censer and adorned with colorful semi-precious stones inlaid. Qilin are thought to be a symbol of luck, good omens, protection, prosperity, success, and longevity by the Chinese. Qilin are also a symbol of fertility, and often depicted in decorations as bringing a baby to a family. Mark on base, an incised four script -KaiShu- characters enclosed within square border, Made in The Years of QianLong Reign Period. Dimensions: 9-1/8" H x 7-3/4" W