Western Han (206 BC--AD 25)
Height.8 cm, Diameter of the plate 21.2 cm
Excavated at the Jiahetun hoard, Jiaozhou, Henan Province. 989

The plate of the censer has a flat base, supported by three mammillated feet. The phoenix’s two claws are riveted to the plate. It is positioned with its head raised, wings outstretched, chest protruding and tail erect. There is also a ball contained within its mouth. Feather patterns are carved into its body and wings. ts wings and body are attached together with rivets, making them moveable. There are small arched and rectangular holes on the wings and tail. Its chest two wings, and tail also both support four phoenix chicks.

Xun lu censers were used in ancient times to both perfume and heat one's surroundings. The design of this vessel is quite innovative. Its unique modelling and the realism and vigour of the phoenix statues combine functionality and aesthetics, appropriate to the function of bronze works during the Han dynasty.