[Video produced by the Shanghai Intangible Cultural Heritage Protection Centre and Shanghai Ximeng Cultural Media Co]

Bronze censers are traditional incense burners with a long and storied history in China. They are usually decorated with mythological animal figures and floral ornaments and were historically valued by people from all walks of life. The craft of making the censers has evolved over many years and required very specialized set of skills, as showcased by the famous "Xuande furnace" during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). In modern times, Shanghai, a key economic and cultural center in China, experienced a widespread increase in the practice of Buddhism. This growing interest led to a greater demand for censers and high-level craftsmanship. Watch the video to learn more.

Sources: Shanghai Intangible Cultural Heritage Protection Centre and Shanghai Ximeng Cultural Media Co