Cheol-ju Bang celadon ceramic kōgō and Japanese nerikō (incense balls)

In the art of Japanese and Korean incense, the kōgō is a small, precious box that preserves and enhances nerikō, refined incense pellets made from precious woods and spices.

Together, they embody a sensory tradition characterized by elegant gestures and subtle fragrances, which Atelier Ikiwa was keen to celebrate by offering a carefully curated selection of superb kōgō to collect, including this piece by Korean ceramicist Cheol-ju Bang, accompanied by its box of nerikō to introduce this little-known art.

The artisan

Cheol-ju Bang (born in 1922), known by his artist name Hyeoksan, is a Korean ceramicist renowned for his contribution to the revival of Goryeo celadon. After beginning his ceramic training in 1967, he founded the Dongguk kiln in 1971 in Icheon, an important center of Korean ceramics. A specialist in celadon glazes and traditional inlaid designs, he played a role in rediscovering the ancient techniques of this ceramic. His kiln was designated a reference kiln by the Korean Cultural Heritage Administration in 1973. His work has been distinguished on several occasions at national exhibitions of traditional crafts and has also been the subject of solo exhibitions in Korea and Japan.

Technique and design

This round kōgō is made of Korean celadon in the tradition of Goryeo ceramics. Its glossy, translucent blue-green glaze reveals a dense network of fine crackles. The lid is decorated with flying cranes, created using the traditional Korean inlay technique ofsanggam, which involves carving the designs into the clay and then filling them with contrasting clays before applying the glaze. Geometric and plant motifs decorate the rim of the box. In Korean tradition, the crane is a symbol of longevity and good fortune.

The kōgō bears the artisan's signature at its base. It is available as a single piece.

Nerikō

To enjoy the kōgō as intended, a box of nerikō is also included. This box contains thirty-six nerikō pellets, each made from a delicately scented blend based on sandalwood, created by one of Kyoto's oldest incense houses. To use them, place two or three in the kōgō and leave the lid slightly ajar. To stop the fragrance from spreading, simply close the lid.

The nerikō pellets should be replaced when they become dry. It is important to keep unused nerikō in the hermetically sealed plastic bag so that they do not dry out.

To discover the art of Japanese kōgō and nerikō, we invite you to read the article we have written on the subject, available via this link. Other kōgō are available on the website; feel free to browse our selection.

Beyond their traditional use with nerikō, kōgō are also valuable decorative and collectible objects. The richness of Japanese and Korean traditions, the diversity of forms and designs, and the expertise of renowned ceramicists and artisans make them a fascinating collection to build over time. Collecting kōgō also offers a glimpse into the world of great Japanese and Korean ceramicists through more intimate creations. Atelier Ikiwa offers a selection of kōgō carefully chosen for their artistic quality and uniqueness.

Practical information

Place of manufacture
South Korea

Dimensions
Width 5.6 cm - Height 2.6 cm

Weight (with box)
180 g

Materials
Celadon ceramic with inlaid design

Period
Second half of the 20th century

Accessories

For the kōgō:
Paulownia wood tomobako protective box bearing the inscription of the work, the artisan's signature and seal, accompanied by an information sheet about the ceramicist.

For the nerikō:
Box containing thirty-six nerikō pellets.

The kōgō and nerikō will be presented together in elegant packaging, adorned with a textured paper band specially created by Atelier Ikiwa. A descriptive sheet about the kōgō and the use of nerikō will accompany the set, ready to give as a gift. A descriptive sheet about the kōgō and the use of nerikō will accompany this set, making it a ready-to-gift, original, unique, and very elegant present.

Directions for use

Place two or three nerikō pellets in the kōgō, leave the lid slightly ajar to release the fragrance or closed to stop it, replace the pellets when they become dry, and keep unused pellets in their airtight bag. Keep out of reach of children and animals. Do not ingest. Avoid prolonged contact with the skin. In case of discomfort or olfactory sensitivity, discontinue use. Store away from heat, moisture, and direct light.