Painted Brass Phoenix Brazier

Filled with burning coals, this 19th-century brass brazier once warmed the hands of a well-to-do person on a cold winter's night in northern China. Crafted of enameled brass, the round brazier has two hinged handles and an intricately pierced lid with an abstract floral pattern. The sides are painted with gilt decoration on black enamel in a pattern of peonies, trailing vines, and auspicious phoenixes, symbols of prosperity and benevolence.

From the collection of Frances and Gary Comer.