An angel shown swinging or holding a censer, linking heavenly worship with the liturgical use of incense.
A censing angel carries or swings a censer, or thurible, from which incense rises. Such figures occur in medieval and later church decoration, especially near crosses, altars, tombs, and images of Christ.
Etymology
From incense/cense, ultimately from Latin incendere, “to burn.”
Sculptor Notes
The censer introduces movement: chains hang, swing, and establish a directional arc. In relief, a sculptor can use that arc to lead the eye toward the principal sacred subject. Incense itself may be suggested through carved cloud or flame-like forms rather than literal smoke.
References
https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/474263