INCENSE CONTAINER, Red Annam, with floral and plant design, With wooden box

An incense container adorned with floral and plant motifs, produced in medieval Annam.

The plump, rounded form is painted with floral and plant motifs in red overglaze and green pigment. On the lid’s exterior a spiral-like floral design radiates outward, while the body is divided into panels containing plant motifs and a lattice pattern. The brushwork is broad and assured; the slight bleeding of the motifs and the soft quality of the glaze convey the simple, rustic charm characteristic of Annamese ceramics.

Red Annam is a type of ceramics fired chiefly in northern Vietnam, distinguished by warm decoration centered on overglaze red painting. In this example, pale red and green tones are gently set against a white, slightly gray-tinged body. The glaze has mellowed with age, presenting a dry, quiet surface rather than a lustrous sheen.

The lid and base fit snugly, offering a form well suited to use as an incense container. While it bears exuberant motifs, its overall demeanor is composed; in the tea setting it imparts a gentle, unassuming atmosphere typical of southern ceramics, distinct from both Chinese and Japanese wares. A small antique vessel to be enjoyed in the palm of the hand.

A wooden box is included. As an older piece it shows wear—abrasion, glaze irregularities, staining, kiln firing marks, small chips, and the like—but overall it remains in a generally sound condition. Please enjoy it with an understanding of its condition.