Kyoto ceramic kōgō by Hashimoto Kisen 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 one by ceramicist Hashimoto Kisen, accompanied by its box of nerikō to introduce this little-known art.

The artisan

Hashimoto Kisen is a Japanese ceramicist born in 1947, specializing in ceramics for the tea ceremony. He began his training in 1967 under the master ceramicist Taiji Tezuka before establishing his own practice in 1985. His work is rooted in the tradition of Kyō-yaki, Kyoto ceramics, renowned for their finely painted designs, rich polychrome enamels, and use of gold overglaze.

This decorative tradition flourished in the 17th century with Nonomura Ninsei, who helped perfect polychrome ceramic painting techniques. It was further developed by Ogata Kenzan, whose compositions inspired by Japanese painting had a lasting influence on Kyoto workshops. Hashimoto Kisen continues this legacy through creations featuring traditional motifs, combining precise drawing with a particularly rich palette.

Technique and design

This large kōgō takes the form of a Japanese fan (ōgi), whose open silhouette is traditionally associated with prosperity and happy events. Its design combines flowering plum branches, bamboo leaves, and geometric motifs in a particularly rich composition, characteristic of Kyoto polychrome ceramics.

The polychrome decoration technique (iro-e) involves applying pigments and colored enamels to pre-fired ceramics, followed by a second firing at a lower temperature to set the colors. The gold overglaze is applied during the final stages of decoration, using a process that preserves the precision of the designs and the brilliance of the surfaces.

White and red plum blossoms, green foliage, and blue motifs blend with golden details in a particularly shimmering composition. The deep red of the fan and the luminous turquoise on the sides accentuate the richness of this design, whose various elements are highlighted by delicate golden outlines.

The interior of the kōgō reveals a second decorative treatment, with a red background covered by an extremely fine network of golden motifs, creating a shimmering effect that extends the richness of the exterior design.

This kōgō is available as a single example and is signed on its base.

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 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 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 forms and designs, 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
Kyoto, Japan

Dimensions
Length 10 cm - Width 7 cm - Height 2 cm

Weight (with box)
206 g

Materials
Kyoto ceramics, polychrome enamels, and gold decoration

Accessories

For the kōgō:
Paulownia wood box (tomobako) bearing the ceramicist’s signature and seal.

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. A descriptive sheet about the kōgō and the use of nerikō is included, making it a ready-to-gift, original, and 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.