This solar observation tool has been
used in solstice ceremonies as a focal
point of the sun's passage. Orienting
the brass ring to align the lens with
the sun, a match can be lit by the
focused rays and used to light the
incense in the bowl of water. This
observation of the solar movement
includes earth (the incense), air (the
focused solar rays), fire (the
subsequently lit match), and water (in
which the incense is suspended). These
four 'elements' have been observed in
ceremonies since ancient times, linking
our modern time to the past.
