Help with family heirloom translation

[Occams Razor]

This has been in our family for generation (probably since the turn of the 20th century), when one of our ancestors immigrated to Australia from China. But none of us know what it is. Can anyone recognise this object and perhaps translate for us? 

[Flickserve]

The third picture has people's names. The names have three characters vertically downwards right to left. All the surnames are different....apart from the left two.

 

Not sure about the other characters in the fourth picture. Haven't a clue what the thing is. 

[Occams Razor]

Thanks for this. Some have speculated that it’s a joss house incense pot. Does that make sense?

[Jim]

After the list of names (i.e. the three characters to their left) it reads 仝敬送 which means jointly (i.e. all the afore-named) respectfully present/gift...

 

Other picture shows a date I think; 已丑 is a year in the sexagenary cycle, https://baike.baidu.com/item/已丑年, recent one that fits your provenance would be 1889. 仲冬 apparently is the second month of winter and 吉旦 is a way of saying auspicious day

 

Not much idea what it is either, would guess incense burner for a family shrine.

[889]

In this context, 吉旦 means the first day of the month.

[Flickserve]

2 hours ago, Jim said:

ot much idea what it is either, would guess incense burner for a family shrine.

 

That looks like a good guess. If we could get some pictures from the top looking down, then we could be a bit more sure. 

 

An incense burner donated by those people whose names appear on it. 

[Occams Razor]

Thanks to all. It’s very much appreciated! It all sheds light on the family mystery. I’ll post a picture from the top as soon as I get home from work. ❤️