Kōgō ceramic incense box by Kinzō Okamoto with plum blossom and nerikō (Japanese incense beads) decoration

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 ceramicist Kinzō Okamoto, accompanied by its box of nerikō to introduce this little-known art.

The artisan

Kinzō Okamoto (1914-2001) was a Japanese ceramicist born in Kurashiki, Okayama Prefecture. Trained in Kyoto, he worked at the National Institute for Ceramic Science, where he studied glazes and firing techniques in particular. In 1934, he opened his own kiln in Kyoto before returning to Kurashiki in 1951 to establish the Tenjin kiln (Tenjin-gama). His work was profoundly shaped by his research into glazes, the rediscovery of ancient techniques, and the development of original glazes. In 1967, he notably succeeded in recreating taihi-san tenmoku, a particularly complex Chinese glaze from the Song dynasty, and then developed the shikin-yū glaze in 1974, known for its purplish hues. Awarded the Okayama Prefecture Cultural Encouragement Prize in 1972 and the Miki Commemorative Prize in 1988, he is recognized for his contribution to Japanese ceramic research. Several of his works are held in the Okayama Prefectural Museum of Art.

Technique and decoration

This kōgō by Kinzō Okamoto illustrates two characteristic techniques of his work: sculpted relief plant decoration and iron oxide painting (tetsu-e). The ceramicist, renowned for his mastery of glazes, combines here the finesse of modeling with the richness of glaze effects.

Round and generously shaped, the kōgō is topped with a sculpted plum branch, its twigs and flower buds rising above the lid. The deep brown motifs contrast with the light, glossy glaze, delicately crackled. This composition gives the piece a particularly expressive sculptural dimension.

The kōgō bears the ceramicist's mark at its base. Only one example is available.

The 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 to prevent them from drying 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 this Japanese tradition, the diversity of shapes and decorations, and the expertise of renowned ceramicists and artisans make it a fascinating 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
Japan

Dimensions
Width 5.5 cm - Height 6.2 cm

Weight (with box)
194 g

Materials
Glazed ceramic, painted and sculpted relief decoration

Period
Shōwa era (1926-1989)

Accessories

For the kōgō:
Paulownia wood tomobako protective box bearing the artisan's signature and seal, accompanied by a protective cloth also bearing his seal.

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

The kōgō and nerikō will be presented together in elegant packaging, adorned with a specially created embossed paper band by Atelier Ikiwa. A descriptive sheet about the kōgō and the use of nerikō will accompany the set, ready to 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 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.