Ogawa Takeo Ceramic Kōgō: Underglaze Blue Floral Round Incense Box for Tea Ceremony, Tomobako

<p>Maker / Brand: Ogawa Takeo Title of Work: Round Kogo (Incense Box) by Ogawa Takeo with Sometsuke Floral Design, Accompanied by its Original Wooden Box, a Tea Ceremony Utensil</p> <p>This exquisite round kogo, or incense box, is a charming example of Japanese ceramic artistry by the esteemed Ogawa Takeo. Adorned with delicate sometsuke underglaze blue floral motifs, it embodies the refined aesthetic central to the Japanese tea ceremony. While a minor stain is present on the bottom, it remains perfectly usable and is presented with its original wooden box, a example to traditional craftsmanship.</p> <p>Artistic & Cultural Background Kogo are small, often exquisitely crafted containers used in both the Japanese tea ceremony (chanoyu) and the art of incense appreciation (kodo). As a chadogu, or tea utensil, a kogo holds fragrant incense used to purify the air and set a contemplative mood before a tea gathering. Their detailed designs and precious materials reflect the deep reverence for nature and careful attention to detail inherent in these traditional arts.</p> <p>Design & Technique The kogo features a classic sometsuke design, where cobalt blue pigment is applied directly to the unglazed porcelain body before a clear glaze is added and fired at high temperatures. This technique results in vibrant, durable blue patterns that contrast beautifully with the pristine white ceramic. Here, a graceful pattern of flowing grasses and delicate blossoms encircles the form, evoking a sense of natural tranquility and seasonal beauty.</p> <p>Form & Aesthetic Qualities * <strong>Elegant Round Form:</strong> The perfectly spherical shape of this kogo offers a harmonious and balanced aesthetic, fitting comfortably in the palm of the hand. * <strong>Smooth Glaze Finish:</strong> A lustrous, clear glaze enhances the sometsuke decoration, providing a smooth, tactile surface that invites touch and reflection. * <strong>Subtle Blue Palette:</strong> The varying shades of underglaze blue create depth and movement within the floral design, offering a serene visual appeal.</p> <p>Collector & Decorative Appeal * <strong>Authentic Tea Ceremony Utensil:</strong> This kogo is a genuine chadogu, making it a valuable addition for practitioners and collectors of Japanese tea ceremony items. * <strong>Master Craftsmanship:</strong> Created by Ogawa Takeo, this piece showcases the skill and artistic vision of a recognized ceramic artist, ensuring its quality and collectible value. * <strong>Versatile Display Piece:</strong> Beyond its traditional use, its elegant form and timeless sometsuke design make it a beautiful decorative accent for any interior, from traditional to contemporary.</p> <p>This charming kogo is an ideal acquisition for those who appreciate the subtle beauty and cultural depth of Japanese ceramic art.</p> <h3>Details</h3> <table style="border-collapse:collapse;width:100%"><tr><td style="padding:4px 12px 4px 0;font-weight:bold;white-space:nowrap">Condition</td><td style="padding:4px 0">Fair</td></tr><tr><td style="padding:4px 12px 4px 0;font-weight:bold;white-space:nowrap">Material</td><td style="padding:4px 0">Ceramic</td></tr><tr><td style="padding:4px 12px 4px 0;font-weight:bold;white-space:nowrap">Era</td><td style="padding:4px 0">Unknown</td></tr></table>