Porcelain kōgō by Shōami Takano II 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 Shōami Takano II, accompanied by its box of nerikō to introduce this little-known art.

The artisan

Shōami Takano II, born Shinjirō Takano, is a Japanese ceramicist born in Kyoto in 1941. Heir to a studio founded in 1930 by his father, Shōami Takano I, he studied Japanese painting at the Kyoto City University of Fine Arts, where he completed his training in 1967. He then worked in the family studio, which he officially took over in 1993.

Specializing in Kyoto porcelain (Kyō-yaki), he continues the traditions of sometsuke, shonzui, polychrome enamels (iro-e), and colored glazes kōchi. His artistic training has given him a particularly refined mastery of porcelain painting, especially in floral compositions and designs combining several techniques. His creations include objects for the tea ceremony, the practice of sencha, and the art of incense. The studio is now being passed on to a third generation.

Technique and design

This Japanese porcelain kōgō takes the form of a traditional Japanese hat (kasa), with a widely flared conical lid topped by a small knob. This original silhouette provides a surface particularly suited to the richness of the geometric patterns covering it.

The design is created using the sometsuke technique, where cobalt blue paint is applied to the porcelain before a clear glaze is added and the piece is fired. More specifically, it belongs to the shonzui style, inspired by porcelains produced in Jingdezhen, China, in the 17th century for Japanese tea ceremony enthusiasts.

Characterized by the density and precision of its compositions, shonzui combines various geometric patterns arranged in bands and compartments. On this kōgō, lattices, grids, scale patterns, and repeating designs alternate with bands of Japanese characters. The deep blue contrasts with the white areas of the porcelain, while the glossy glaze accentuates the sharpness and depth of the designs.

The design continues onto the lower part of the kōgō, ensuring continuity between the lid and the base. A signature painted in blue appears beneath the base.

This kōgō is available as a single piece.

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
Diameter 6.2 cm - Height 4.2 cm

Weight (with box)
158 g

Materials
Japanese porcelain, sometsuke design in cobalt blue under a clear glaze

Accessories

For the kōgō:
Paulownia box (tomobako) signed and bearing the ceramicist’s 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 this an original and elegant gift ready to give.

Usage instructions

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.