Of the more esoteric devices developed by the Chinese to measure time, perhaps the most arcane are these aromatic incense clocks, which “told time” by the scents they emitted at designated periods. First, wood ash was tamped firmly in the tray. Then the seal was placed over the ash. A depression was made in the ash base along the entire length of the seal’s track, into which special powdered incense was carefully poured. When the seal was lifted, the incense remained in the track. The incense was then lighted and burned continuously for 24 hours. The intricate and refined beauty of these utilitarian objects made incense clocks an important accoutrement in the scholar’s study. The qin is one of the oldest Chinese musical instruments, with a history that spans nearly 3,000 years. It was the instrument of the Confucian superior man. Many objects for the scholar’s desk were crafted in the shape of a qin – a shape which has long associations with the pursuits of the scholar.

Paktong itself has a fascinating history. Centuries before nickel was isolated in the west, the Chinese had produced an alloy of zinc, copper and nickel which had the lustrous sheen and color tone of silver, was appreciably harder than silver, and did not tarnish in use. Many examples of this alloy have a particularly pleasing color which is silver bright but possesses what has been termed a “soul of gold.” (For additional information about paktong, see our article in “Arts of Asia,” Nov/Dec. 1992.) Condition is marvelous. Chinese incense clocks are one of our specialties. The quality of the paktong on this piece is one of the most brilliant we have ever seen, suggesting the work of an incredibly skilled metal craftsman. Dimensions: 8” long, 2 ½” wide, 2 ½” high.