Takano Shōami's sometsuke porcelain kōgō and Japanese nerikō (incense balls)

In the art of Japanese incense, the kōgō is a small, precious box that preserves and showcases the nerikō, these refined incense pastilles made from precious woods and spices.

Together, they embody a sensory tradition that is rooted in the elegance of gestures and the subtlety of fragrances that Atelier Ikiwa was keen to celebrate by offering a rigorous selection of superb kōgō signed by renowned ceramists accompanied by their box of nerikō to help you discover this little-known art.

This white and blue porcelain kōgō (sometsuke) was created by Takano Shōami (1905-1993), ceramicist from Kyoto. Trained under master Shibata Joa, he founded his own workshop in the Imakumano district of Kyoto and rigorously perpetuated the traditions of Kyō-yaki. He is particularly renowned for his delicate pieces with hand-painted decorations, often in underglaze blue or colored glazes.

This 6cm high kōgō takes the form of a stylized upright gourd, a symbolic motif of abundance. It is a traditional form, where the gourd ( uri ) is shown standing upright, as if standing on its base, a stylized way of representing its silhouette, often used in Japanese art objects. This kōgō features a hand-painted geometric design in a deep cobalt blue. The piece is signed under its base, and accompanied by its protective paulownia wood box (tomobako) bearing the work's inscription, as well as the maker's signature and official seal.

To enjoy the kōgō as it was intended, a box of nerikō is also included. This box contains 36 nerikō beads, each composed of a delicately fragrant blend (based on sandalwood) created by one of Kyoto's oldest incense houses. To use them, place 2-3 in the kōgō and leave the lid ajar. If you want to stop the fragrance diffusion, simply close the lid. Nerikō beads should be replaced when they become dry. Be sure to store unused nerikō beads in the tightly 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 site, do not hesitate to browse our selection.