Gold Orthodox Censer with Bells and Byzantine Hanging Chain

The lid rises through a chased, domed shoulder to a short chimney and a pierced cross finial set with a single red stone. A round enamel medallion sits on each side of the lid, worked in red, white and blue around a central cross. The bowl and the stepped foot carry raised figures and scrollwork, and four rings at the rim take the chains.

Three chains of 23.62 in (60 cm) run to a pierced canopy and a single suspension ring, so the censer hangs level and swings cleanly. Round bells are fixed along the chains at intervals, which is what gives the thurible its sound in procession.

The censer stands 10.03 in (25.5 cm) to the top of the cross and measures 3.93 in (10 cm) across the bowl. It weighs 650 g. The body is alloy with a gold-tone finish, and the medallions are enamel.

The lid lifts clear of the bowl so charcoal can be lit and set inside, and incense added with the spoon. Suspended censers of this shape are used at the Divine Liturgy and at Vespers in the Eastern churches, and the same pattern serves well in Western parishes for Benediction, Solemn Mass and funerals.

The censer with its lid, the three bell chains and canopy, and the inner bowl and spoon shown in the photographs. Charcoal and incense are not included. Allow 4-5 days for us to prepare and pack the order, with a further 10-15 days in transit counted separately.

See the rest of the range in clergy accessories, or write to us if your parish needs several.