Chinese Bronze Censer Incense Burner - Ming Dynasty

This antique Chinese bronze incense burner was recently acquired from a prominent Bostonian estate of Asian antiques. The characteristics and markings of this incense burner indicate that it is an antique piece of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). The bottom of the vase appears to have an Emperor's reign mark of the Xuande era. There are two bronze handles in the form of loops with repeating border patterns. The upper lip and lower portion on the outside of the incense burner has repeating rectangular spirals pattern. The outside is comprised of several large chop marks that probably indicate the Emperor's name, rein dates, and other symbolic information. There are tripod legs with a Chinese Lion or Foo Dog face, body and feet. The underside has three Chinese "long life" symbols within mystical animals and amongst repeating circular patterns. A large double circle encompasses the space between the three tripod Lion or Foo Dogs, with repeating pattern of spirals. Within the inner circle is the signed rein mark or artist mark. The inside of the incense burner is completely covered in Patina and Oxidation. The upper lip, and outside of the incense burner also has Patina and Oxidation throughout. Approximate dimensions: Height (including handle): 4 in; Top Diameter (including lip) 4 1/2 in; Bottom Diameter: 4 in; Circumference 13 3/4 in; Ounces Weight: 18.752; Grams Weight: 162.6531.7. The incense burner is in excellent condition for its age. There are no damages to the item.