Vintage Japanese Tea Ceremony Bizen Kogo of a Samurai | Ceramic Collectible Incense Container

Dimensions: 1-3/4”h x 2-1/4”dia

This Bizen-yaki Kogo (jyu-koh-go) is a Buddhist tea accessory that refers to a small, lidded container for incense, historically prominent among the royal and noble families and continued to maintain its regal undertones retaining a sense of exclusivity and traditional charm. Kogo are available in different styles, symbols, motifs, and materials, and are used for different ceremonies in all four seasons. The simplicity of bizen-yaki has been appreciated for centuries for its wabi-sabi nature: subtle, imperfect, and unique through its stoneware foundation. This small container demonstrates the expert abilities of an experienced maker that were necessary for shaping such small pieces.

This beautifully detailed Kogo depicts a Samurai, a warrior with a helmet (kabuto), with raised ridges where the helmet plates come together. The figure which is glazed, has a detailed and stern face on the removable earthenware lid. A suggestion of elaborate elements, such as the simulated deer antlers on the helmet symbolizing bravery. This Kogo shows multiple reddish brown and okra tones with a glazed luster finish. His face is deeply formed to emphasize the notable elements of the figure. The interior of the piece has a lip that rungs the container in unfinished clay and has a rounded base with the same 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 neutral tones. The piece is signed but unidentified. 

Additional Information: 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Vintage Condition: Excellent as originally made and retains the original craft/workmanship.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.