History's ashes

The history of incense in China dates back to the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 BC) and the Warring States Period (475-221 BC), when it was used for ceremonial and religious purposes, according to the website of the China Incense Culture Research Center, an organization under the China Folklore Society.

Incense held a central place in Buddhist and Taoist rituals — often symbolizing purity and reverence — and was burned when prayers were offered. As Buddhism spread in China during the Tang Dynasty (618-907), incense became a common aroma in temples and households.

Burning incense extended beyond religion, infiltrating daily life as the practice came to symbolize a connection to the natural and spiritual worlds.

The Song Dynasty (960-1279) saw incense evolve into a refined art form known as xiangdao, or "the way of incense", which involved making and enjoying incense in a mindful and contemplative manner.

Scholars and social elites held incense appreciation gatherings, where they would carefully evaluate and compare different scents, discuss poetry, and engage in philosophical debates. The Song Dynasty also marked the peak of incense craftsmanship, with artisans creating elaborate incense burners, aromatic blends, and intricate rituals for enjoying a variety of fragrances.