Yinxiang, or stamped incense. [Photo/ntfabu.com]

Shi Baoping, a renowned researcher of incense culture in China, gave a lesson to Nantong incense enthusiasts on Nov 25.

During the activity, Shi led the participants in studying the masterpiece of Ding Yuehu, a Nantong-born incense craft artist during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). 

She also explained distinctive types of censers used in different occasions, and instructed the attendees on how to distinguish natural perfumes and to produce stamped incense.

Incense and fragrances have been a part of Chinese culture for thousands of years. Fragrance first appeared before the Warring States Period (475-221BC) in the form of herbs used to cure or prevent disease. Today, these herbs are mainly used for relaxation purposes.

There are various ways to burn incense. The most common is lighting coils and sticks. 

The method that Shi introduced is an ancient ritual of burning incense -- heating incense powder which is stamped into a certain pattern on a mica plate set above a charcoal fire. 

Few people know about the ancient rituals associated with incense. The activity was meant to promote the art form to more people.

Incense enthusiasts discuss during an activity on Nov 25. [Photo/ntfabu.com]