Vintage Japanese Lacquered Kogo Incense Box with Engraved Crimson Mandala, Late Showa 1966-1989 | SKU: 26M-819

Vintage Japanese Lacquered Kogo Incense Box with Engraved Crimson Mandala, Late Showa 1966-1989 | SKU: 26M-819

A finely lacquered kogo incense or trinket box bearing a boldly engraved crimson mandala on jet-black lacquer, presented in its original wooden storage box.

A kogo is a small lidded container used in the Japanese tea ceremony to hold powdered incense, and pieces of this compact, domed form were also treasured as personal accessories and keepsake boxes. This example is crafted from wood finished in a deep, mirror-polished black lacquer -- a technique that speaks to the enduring Japanese craft of urushi work. The domed lid is decorated with an intricately engraved floral mandala rendered in vivid red-orange against the dark ground, the radiating petals and fine feathered line work executed with remarkable precision. The interior of the base is smoothly lacquered in a rich dark tone, and the fit between lid and base is snug and satisfying. A plain wooden storage box (hakobako) with a textile ribbon tie accompanies the piece, a classic mark of careful Japanese craftsmanship and collector presentation.

In a modern home, this handcrafted Japanese lacquerware box is a versatile and eye-catching accent. Display it on a vanity or dressing table as a ring dish or earring holder, bringing a wabi-sabi aesthetic and a touch of vintage Japanese craft to your bedroom decor. It works equally well on a living room shelf or coffee table as a small decorative accent -- a conversation piece that pairs beautifully with Japandi style interiors. Its compact size and striking graphic design make it a unique gift for collectors, Japanophiles, or anyone who appreciates fine lacquerware and the quiet elegance of traditional Japanese objects.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Wood core with black urushi-style lacquer finish; red engraved mandala decoration on lid; plain wood storage box with textile ribbon
• Use: Kogo -- a small lidded container used to hold incense during the Japanese tea ceremony, or as a personal keepsake box
• Modern Use: Ring dish or earring holder on a vanity; decorative accent on a living room shelf or coffee table; unique gift for collectors or Japanophiles
• Features: Deep mirror-polished black lacquer body; boldly engraved crimson floral mandala covering the full dome of the lid; smooth black lacquer interior; snug-fitting lift-off lid; accompanied by original plain wood hakobako storage box with purple textile ribbon tie
• Dimensions: 2 1/2" Diameter x 1"H
• Condition: Excellent

A striking example of vintage Japanese lacquerware craft -- where centuries-old urushi tradition meets bold decorative design, ready to bring warmth and artistry to any modern interior.

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 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.