Karatsu ceramic kōgō by Kōji Inoue and Japanese nerikō (incense balls)

In the art of Japanese 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 ceramic artist Kōji Inoue, accompanied by its box of nerikō to introduce this little-known art.

The artisan

Born in Karatsu in 1974, Kōji Inoue is the heir to the prestigious Kyōzan-gama kiln, founded in 1969 by his father Tōya Inoue, a ceramicist renowned for his research into ancient Karatsu kilns. After studying at Tama Art University and the Arita Ceramic School, he trained under Jun Isezaki, a Living National Treasure and master of Bizen ceramics. He joined the family workshop in 2006 and took over its management in 2014.

His work perpetuates the tradition of Karatsu ceramics, which are particularly prized in the world of the tea ceremony. At the Kyōzan-gama kiln, the preparation of clays and glazes, hand-shaping, and wood-firing play an essential role, honoring ancient techniques that give each creation its distinctive character.

Technique and decoration

This kōgō was made using the traditional e-Karatsu technique, literally “painted Karatsu,” characterized by a design painted in iron oxide on the clay before the application of a clear glaze and firing.

Its rounded form and harmonious lines highlight a clay whose slightly granular texture remains perceptible beneath the glaze. The glaze, with its light gray and cream tones, reveals fine crazing and small natural speckles, reflecting the richness of the material and the transformations brought about by firing.

On the lid, a stylized plant branch is painted in iron oxide in dark brown, almost black tones. The simplicity of this composition, combined with the variations in the glaze, expresses the elegance of traditional Karatsu ceramics.

This kōgō is available as a single piece.

The nerikō

If you wish 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 and 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 their hermetically sealed plastic bag to prevent them from drying out.

To discover the art of Japanese kōgō and nerikō, we invite you to read the article we wrote 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 this Japanese tradition, the variety of forms and designs, and the expertise of renowned ceramicists and artisans make it an exciting collection to build over time. Collecting kōgō also offers a glimpse into the world of great Japanese 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
Karatsu, Saga Prefecture, Japan

Dimensions
Diameter 7 cm - Height 4 cm

Weight (with box)
202 g

Materials
Glazed stoneware, iron oxide painted decoration

Accessories

For the kōgō: Paulownia box (tomobako) signed and bearing the ceramicist’s seal, protective cloth (tomonuno), and information sheet (shiori).

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

The kōgō and nerikō will be packaged together in an elegant box with an embossed paper band featuring plum blossoms, specially designed by Atelier Ikiwa and made by hand. An information sheet about the kōgō and the use of nerikō is included, making it an original and elegant gift ready to give.

Directions for use

Place two or three nerikō pellets in the kōgō, leave the lid slightly ajar to release the fragrance, or close it to stop the fragrance from spreading. 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. If discomfort or olfactory sensitivity occurs, discontinue use. Store away from heat, moisture, and direct light.