Since the dawn of time, in every part of the world, man has worshiped his gods with the burning of fragrant woods, oils and spices. The ancient trade routes to the East did a thriving business in incense, and the shrines and temples of antiquity were laden with the precious smoke from its burning. Centuries ago, some person unknown placed incense in this brazier so that the smoke would rise through the holes to please some now-forgotten god. It was not perhaps the gift of a wealthy person, yet in the presence of this vessel we feel the power of those ancient aspirations and dreams.