Antique Japanese Kogo Incense Container, 1927 - 1945 (Early Showa) | SKU: 26M-611-2

Japanese Kogo Incense Container | Antique Lacquer Trinket Box & Tea Ceremony Accent, 1927-1945 (Early Showa), SKU 26M-611-2

A palm-sized lacquer kogo adorned with carved chrysanthemum and butterfly motifs in shell and bone inlay -- presented in its original signed kiri wood box.

A kogo is a small lidded container used in the Japanese tea ceremony (chado) to hold fragrant incense (koh), placed near the brazier during the ritual preparation of tea. This compact round kogo is lacquered in deep black urushi on the lid face, with a warm dark red-brown lacquer covering the body and interior surfaces. The rim is encircled by a finely carved relief band of scrolling cloud or wave motifs, a classic decorative flourish found on quality lacquerware of the early Showa period. The lid is embellished with two raised inlay figures: a fully bloomed kiku (chrysanthemum) rendered in carved bone with a golden center, and a butterfly in iridescent mother-of-pearl -- both symbols of longevity, imperial grace, and the seasonal beauty so central to Japanese antique craft. The piece retains a thin red lacquer line visible at the seam between lid and base, a refined detail typical of skilled Japanese lacquerware. The set includes its original signed kiri (paulownia) wood storage box lined with a protective yellow cloth wrap, confirming this was a treasured collector-grade piece from the time of its creation.

This exquisite kogo makes a compelling living room accent or meditation space object for anyone drawn to the wabi-sabi aesthetic or Japandi style interiors. Its small, sculptural form is ideal as a ring dish or jewelry keeper on a bedroom vanity, a trinket box on a home office desk, or a striking display piece on a minimalist shelf alongside other Japanese antiques. The original storage box adds collector authenticity and makes this a particularly thoughtful gift for Japanophiles -- whether for a birthday, housewarming, or as a unique gift for tea ceremony enthusiasts. Its palm-sized scale means it can bring quiet beauty to even the smallest corner of a modern home.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1927-1945 (Early Showa)
• Material: Lacquered wood (urushi, deep black and dark red-brown); lid inlay of carved bone and mother-of-pearl; original kiri (paulownia) wood storage box with cloth wrap
• Use: Kogo -- lidded incense container for use in the Japanese tea ceremony (chado)
• Modern Use: Ring dish or small jewelry keeper on a vanity; decorative trinket box on a desk or shelf; display piece in a Japandi or wabi-sabi styled interior
• Features: Round form with deep black urushi lid and dark red-brown lacquer body; carved scrolling relief band around the rim; raised inlay of a kiku (chrysanthemum) in carved bone with golden center and a butterfly in iridescent mother-of-pearl; visible red lacquer seam detail; comes with original signed kiri wood box and yellow cloth wrap
• Dimensions: 2 1/2" Diameter
• Condition: Excellent

A museum-quality piece of Japanese antique lacquerware -- where the elegance of chado tradition meets the quiet artistry of Early Showa craftsmanship.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All vintage and antique items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.