Title: Imari ware Kouro
Description
This item is the Kouro (香炉, incense burner). The vermilion, navy blue, and gold colors make this Kouro’s decorative look gorgeously. It combines flora and fauna and several geometric patterns, and each motif is placed well-balanced, resulting in an elegant finish.
Now, please focus on the lid of this incense burner. You would find that a dog-like animal motif is attached. Based on its appearance, we believe this model is the Karajishi (唐獅子). The Shishi (獅子) means a lion in Japanese. This animal is a lion brought from the continent to Japan in the Toh period (唐, Tang dynasty, 618-907). The Karajishi typically has curly hair for its head, neck, body, and tail. In Buddhism, the Karajishi is regarded as a symbol of wisdom, and Monju Bosatu (文殊菩薩, Manjushri Bodhisattva) rides lions. According to a theory, the Karajishi is the origin of Komainu (狛犬, stone guardian dogs that exorcize evil spirits). It shows this beast motif has been familiar to Japanese people since ancient times. This Kouro is a masterpiece with an oriental atmosphere that incorporates motifs originated from the continent.
*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/
