The altar of incense, or golden altar, was placed inside the holy place, directly in front of the veil separating the holy place from the Most Holy (Ex 30:1, 6). The altar of the Mosaic tabernacle was made of acacia wood, and was plated with gold. It measured 2 cu. (about 3 ft. 5 in. [c. 1.04 m.]) high and 1 cu. (about 1 ft. 9 in. [c. .53 m.]) square (ch 30:1-3). A "crown," or moulding, of gold bordered it, which projected into horns at the corners (cf. Lev 4:7). Two golden rings, fastened to opposite sides of the altar, were provided for the insertion of poles when transportation was necessary (Ex 30:4). An incense of specified ingredients was to be burned upon it twice daily as a "perpetual incense," implying a constantly ascending fragrance (vs. 7, 8, 34-38).

The altar of incense of Solomon's Temple was made of cedarwood, and was overlaid with gold (1 Ki 6:20, 22).

A golden altar was seen by John the revelator in vision, and was represented as standing before the throne of Deity. Upon it an angel was burning incense, which mingled with the prayers of saints (Rev 8:3). This can be taken as symbolising the ministration of Christ -- Seventh-day Adventist Bible Dictionary.