Vintage Japanese Brass Koro Incense Burner, Mid Showa 1946-1965 | SKU: 26J-0198

Vintage Japanese Brass Koro Incense Burner, Mid Showa 1946-1965 | SKU: 26J-0198

A richly ornamented footed brass vessel -- possibly a koro incense burner -- bearing a bold repeating shield motif and warm aged patina from mid-century Japan.

A koro is a traditional Japanese incense burner, historically used in Buddhist household altars and tea ceremony settings to hold smoldering incense. This compact footed vessel follows that classic form -- a cylindrical open body raised on small bracket feet, with a rolled rim at the top and a darkened interior that speaks to decades of use and age. Encircling the upper half of the body is a striking band of raised pointed shield-shaped cartouches, each filled with fine scrollwork and dotted beading, lending the piece an eclectic decorative quality that blends traditional Japanese metalwork with export-era aesthetics. The warm brass surface has developed a natural patina of age spots and light surface wear, adding to its character as a piece of vintage Japanese craft.

In a modern home, this handsome little vessel works beautifully as a living room accent or shelf display piece -- its compact size and ornate relief making it an instant conversation starter. Set it on a mantle or side table as a small succulent cachepot or air plant holder, or use it as a pen cup or desk organizer in a home office with Japandi style or wabi-sabi aesthetic sensibility. It also makes a unique housewarming gift for collectors of Japanese vintage metalwork or anyone drawn to vintage global decor.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1946-1965 (Mid Showa)
• Material: Brass
• Use: Decorative footed vessel; possibly used as a koro (incense burner) or altar accessory
• Modern Use: Shelf or mantle display accent; small cachepot or air plant holder; desk organizer or pen cup
• Features: Cylindrical open form; rolled double rim at top; repeating raised shield-shaped cartouches with scrollwork and beaded detailing encircling the upper body; small bracket feet at base; darkened interior; overall warm aged patina with light surface wear
• Dimensions: 4 1/2"W x 4 1/2"D x 3 1/2"H
• Condition: Excellent

A beautifully ornamented piece of vintage Japanese brass that brings old-world craftsmanship and quiet character 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.