Chinese Incense Clock
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
1600-1950
This Chinese incense clock is a timekeeping device that functions by burning powdered incense along a pre-measured path. The instrument consists of three trays, two maze-like stencils, a latticework lid, and a leveller.
The lid is designed to shield the burning incense from air currents that might extinguish it. It features a decorative metal latticework incorporating the Chinese “double happiness” character, shuāng xǐ, which is associated with love and marriage. The base tray provides storage space for accessories such as a spatula or leveller. The clock was designed to accommodate the use of incense sticks of standardized lengths, often containing perfumes, allowing a user to track the passage of time through the sense of smell. , and is dated to the period between 1600 and 1950.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Technical characteristics
- Type
- Incense clock
- Maker
- Ming Hsin
- Components
- 3 trays, 2 maze stencils, 1 lid, 1 leveller
- Object name
- clocks
- Measurements
- 85 mm x 80 mm x 80 mm
- Design feature
- Double happiness character
- Place recorded
- China
- Place of origin
- Chao, China
Design
- Visible features
- • Includes a metal lid with intricate filigree work • Features the Chinese 'double happiness' symbol in the lid design • Consists of multiple stacking tray components • Maze-like metal stencils are used for the incense track
- Timekeeping Function
- The object functions as a timekeeping instrument by utilizing the combustion of incense. Powdered incense is laid along a path determined by the maze stencils. Because the length of the incense sticks is standardized, the incense burns at a predictable rate. The inclusion of perfumes in the incense allows the user to mark time through the sense of smell. The device relies on the consistent burn rate of the incense material to measure time. This method of timekeeping has been utilized in China for recreational, religious, and practical purposes for over a millennium. The maze stencils act as a template, allowing the user to select specific durations based on the path length defined by the stencil design.
- Construction and Design
- The incense clock is constructed from metal components arranged in a stacking configuration. The assembly comprises three distinct trays and a protective lid. The uppermost component is a latticework lid, which protects the incense burning path from ambient air. The lid is decorated with the "double happiness" character, or shuāng xǐ, integrated into the pattern. Two maze stencils are included to guide the placement of the powdered incense. The trays themselves serve as the foundation for the burning process, with the base tray also designated for the storage of maintenance accessories such as a spatula or a leveller. The overall dimensions are 85 mm in height with a width and depth of 80 mm.
- Provenance and Attribution
- The clock is identified by the accession number 1952-184. The object was donated to the collection by Mr. F. H. Nash. The dating for the object is broad, spanning from 1600 to 1950. While the maker and location are provided, the historical context of the object within the collection rests on the attribution to the specified maker and place of origin.
Identification
- Accession number
- 1952-184
- Source note
- Facts transcribed from the linked source listing or collection record. Attribution and specifications are source-reported and have not been independently authenticated.
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.
Research required
- Research required: The exact date of manufacture remains broad within a 350-year range
- Research required: The function and usage history are documented generally for this type of object rather than this specific example