Pair of Prosperity Incense Stands

These hand-carved wooden pillars were once used to elevate burning incense in a shrine or altar display. An essential element of ritual prayer, incense is burned as a form of offering and to measure the duration of the ritual process. These incense stands are carved with an all-over design of bats and clouds, a common motif of luck and good fortune. At the base is a round coin, a symbol of wealth, and at the top is the shou medallion for longevity.

From the collection of Frances and Gary Comer.