Japanese sometsuke porcelain kōgō by Seika Suda III, Tokin Nasu design, 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 the ceramic artist Seika Suda III, accompanied by its box of nerikō to introduce this little-known art.

The artisan

Seika Suda III (1916-1981) belonged to a prestigious lineage of Kutani ceramic artists in Ishikawa Prefecture. Inheritor of a family tradition renowned for the quality of its porcelain and painted decorations, he carried on the expertise of the workshop founded by his grandfather, the first Seika Suda, who notably contributed to the training of the renowned Rosanjin Kitaōji.

Technique and decoration

Made of Japanese porcelain using the sometsuke technique, this small kōgō is decorated with cobalt blue painted motifs before the application of a clear glaze and firing. The shades of blue contrast with the luminous whiteness of the porcelain.

Its traditional shape, called tokin nasu, combines the form of an eggplant with the small pointed cap worn by the monks of the Japanese mountains. The diamond-shaped silhouette with softened corners is decorated with eggplants, auspicious symbols associated with prosperity and success.

The piece bears the artist's mark at its base and retains a patina of use consistent with its age. This kōgō is available as a single example.

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 pouch so that they do not dry 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 ceramic artists and artisans make it an exciting collection to build over time. Collecting kōgō also means entering the world of great Japanese ceramic artists 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, Ishikawa Prefecture, Kutani region

Dimensions
Width 5.5 cm - Depth 5 cm - Height 5.5 cm

Weight (with box)
116 g

Materials
Glazed porcelain, cobalt blue painted decoration (sometsuke)

Period
Shōwa era (1926-1989)

Accessories

For the kōgō:
Paulownia wood protective box (tomobako) bearing an inscription and the artist's seal, accompanied by an information sheet.

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

The kōgō and nerikō will be presented together in elegant packaging, adorned with a textured paper band specially created by Atelier Ikiwa. A descriptive sheet for the kōgō and the use of nerikō will accompany the set, ready to gift. A descriptive sheet for the kōgō and the use of nerikō accompanies the set, for a 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 closed to stop it, replace the pellets when they become dry, and keep unused pellets in their hermetically sealed pouch. Keep out of reach of children and animals. Do not ingest. Avoid prolonged contact with the skin. In case of discomfort or olfactory sensitivity, discontinue use. Store away from heat, moisture, and direct light.