Vintage Japanese Kogo Incense Container by Joho Nakamura | Sumidemae Ceramic Collectible

Dimensions: 1-3/4” x 2-0”dia.

This incense container, (Kogo), is used for the Japanese tea ceremony emphasizing an important religious figure, Daruma with his characteristic unglazed face, and cowl/robe on the removable earthenware lid. This earthenware collectible turns reddish brown showing multiple colored glazes such as dark brown, and a reddish amber glazed luster finish. The interior of the piece has a lip that surrounds the interior of the container in dark brown and has a low foot ring with the same glaze chafing on the inside rim of the cover. This kogo sits comfortably in the hands of the holder and presents a fine play of textures and amber tones. The piece is unsigned, but unmistakably executed by Joho Nakamura, Kawakita District, Kanazawa City. 

Ohimura ware embodies an exquisite artistry born of manual dexterity, eschewing the conventional potter’s wheel in favor of a method that requires deft manipulation by hand. Following a meticulous process the glazing and r paid firing within diminutive kilns the pieces are swiftly plunged into a realm of cooling where the distinctive Chimera ware comes alive. As one of the family creators of fine pottery, pieces of this type have been associated with the world of the Japanese tea ceremony since the 17th century.

Additional Information: As for the tea ceremony, (Sumidemae), the Kogo is brought into the room together with other tea ceremony utensils, along with the Sumitori charcoal container. The incense from the Kogo is placed in the charcoal fire to emit a nice fragrance. Usually, there are about three pieces in the Kogo incense container but only two are placed in the fire, one near the fire and a second one more distant from the fire to start burning later and have a continuous fragrance in the Chashitsu. See https://mingeiarts.com/blogs/celebration-of-mingei-journey-through-japan/kogo-incense-containers-open-the-atmospheric-paths-of-creativity-socialization for further readings.

Vintage Condition: Excellent as originally made and retains the original craft/workmanship. There is no sign of discoloration, chipping/cracking, surface wear, or structural damage.