Title: Chrysanthemum and Bamboo design Kouro
Description
This item is the Kouro (香炉, incense burner). It is a tool used for heating solid fragrances and releasing aroma components. Chrysanthemums (菊, Kiku) and bamboos (竹, Take) are depicted for this item and gorgeously colored with several paintings. The white, vermilion, blue green, and gold colors are effectively used for coloring, and they make this Kouro’s decorative look gorgeously.
The chrysanthemum was used as a medicine for obtaining a long life in China a long time ago, and it was brought to Japan with this thought in the Nara period (648-781). Chrysanthemum is one of the flowers which symbolizes fall, and people appreciate it very much since ancient times. As its petals form radially, the chrysanthemum has been likened to the sun. That is why this flower pattern is treated as the symbol of perpetual youth and longevity or good health. “Kiku no Gomon (菊の御紋)” is a kind of chrysanthemum pattern, and it has been used as the crest of the Emperor and the royal family in Japan so that it is well-known as a noble pattern.
On the lid part, bamboos are depicted with golden lines and their grasses are decoratively painted in a variety of colors.
Bamboos grow neatly towards the sky, and it is vital so that this motif represents nobility and strength. Besides, the bamboo breaks straight, but its content is hollow; people thought it shows innocence. According to a Chinese legend, Houhou (鳳凰, Fenghuang) eats bamboo fruits; therefore, bamboo has been considered a sacred plant. Also, as it keeps its green color even in cold winter, people thought the bamboo pattern shows eternity and longevity. We would say that the bamboo pattern is one of the familiar designs for Japanese people since ancient times.
Here, we would also like to introduce some of the geometric patterns applied to the bamboo grasses. The continuous geometric pattern that connects straight lines like a spiral is called Raimon (雷紋) or Raimon Tsunagi (雷紋繋ぎ), which means a shape of lightning streaks. This design was brought to Japan from the Continent. People regarded the thunder as a symbol of the wonders of the natural world. It is thought this design has the power that it would protect people from evil spirits. In Japan, this pattern has been used since ancient times, for example, it is seen even in some Yayoi Dokis (弥生土器, Yayoi pottery).
The geometric design of wave pattern is called Seigaiha Monyou (青海波文様). As waves’ movements continue endlessly, a wave pattern represents eternity, immortality, longevity, birth, etcetera. Also, since tides repeatedly change the shape and terrain of rocks, some people hoped for a strong will by using this motif. People used this pattern wishing for an indomitable spirit to rechallenge time and time without giving up. In addition to that, as for the Seigaiha pattern, which means semicircular repeated wave shapes as seen in this work, it is said to symbolize the benefits of the vast sea. This infinite wave pattern is an auspicious pattern. People used it, wishing eternal happiness and peaceful lives for the future.
The combination of these patterns make this item look more elegant and decorative.
*As this item is an antique, please check each photo and ensure its condition.
What is Imari Yaki?
Imari Yaki (伊万里焼, Imari ware) is a type of Japanese porcelain produced in Hizen (肥前, Saga prefecture, and Nagasaki prefecture today). It flourished mainly in Arita (有田) town in Saga prefecture. The main port of shipment was Imari, so this style of porcelain was named Imari Yaki. Until the medieval, Japanese people made pottery but depended on foreign countries for porcelains. The first production of domestic porcelain began in Arita town in the 17th century. It is the origin of porcelain in Japan.
Its quality of material characterizes imari ware. Porcelain is even stronger than pottery. It becomes hard and durable since it is fired at a high temperature (around 1300 degrees) for over 17 hours. You could hear a clear and high-pitched sound if you flipped this porcelain lightly with your finger. Also, it has a smooth texture compared to other potteries.
【About us】
Samurai Museum is located in Tokyo, Japan, exhibiting antique artifacts related to the Samurai history. Samurai Museum Shop is the place for those who are interested in Japanese culture and craftsmanship. We deal with antique Samurai swords/armor, traditional crafts made in Japan and so on.
【Payment method】
We accept payment through Stripe (Credit card), PayPal, Apple Pay or ChromePay, all of which are secure payment methods. Also, you don’t need to make an account on Stripe for the checkout. If you prefer other payment method, please contact us. You may either pay in JPY, USD, AUD, CAD, EUR, CHF or GBP. The price is set in Japanese Yen. Prices in other currencies are automatically calculated based on the latest exchange rate.
【Shipping duration】
We normally ship via EMS (Express Mail Service) provided by Japan Post. It usually takes at least 5-14 days to deliver the package after you place an order.
We offer Free International Shipping as long as we can ship your order by EMS. If you prefer other shipping carriers, please contact us.
We will inform you of the order’s tracking number via email. Please make sure you fill out your valid email address correctly.
*Please keep in mind that due to the spread of COVID-19, there might be possible delays in delivery. If you like to make sure if EMS shipping is available to your country, please contact us.
【How to make sure the condition】
Please keep in mind that what you are going to purchase is an antique item. We uploaded high resolution photos for you to check its condition thoroughly. If you like to see more photos with different angles, please feel free to contact us. We will be happy to send them to you so that you can make informed decision.
It is essential for us to know that you are happy with your choice of incense burner and we are prepared to use the best of our ability to serve you.
Would you like see some more Antique items for sale? Please check the link below. We hope you can find your favorite item.
https://www.samuraimuseum.jp/shop/product-category/antique/
