First off, the weight of this incense burner surprised me—it's solid cast iron, so it stays put on my wobbly meditation table. No more knocking over incense sticks mid-session!

The lotus carving isn't just pretty—when lit, the hollow design casts flickering leaf-shaped shadows on my wall. I use it with sandalwood sticks during yoga, and the heavy base actually contains ashes better than my old ceramic one (RIP white rug).

That said, the 'glossy' finish some reviewers hated? It's only on the rim—I rubbed mine with a scouring pad for a matte look in 2 minutes. Pro tip: Pair it with chunky Tibetan incense coils—they balance perfectly in the wide bowl unlike flimsy bamboo holders.

Yes, you might find cheaper versions, but after three months of daily use (and two accidental drops), not a single chip or rust spot. This little lotus eats incense sticks for breakfast and still looks divine holding my eucalyptus essential oils.