Ohi Ware Red Raku Ameyu Incense Container, Edo Period (1603-1867 CE)

Ohi-yaki is a side kiln of Raku-yaki with a history and tradition of 350 years, located in Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan. What sets it apart is that it is formed by hand-twisting without using a potter's wheel, and each piece is meticulously crafted by shaving with a spatula.

This item is a small-sized incense container (kōgō) of Ohi-yaki from the Edo period. Ohi-yaki is fired in small kilns, where the temperature is quickly raised and then rapidly cooled by pulling it out. This rapid firing with temperature differentials is a technique unique to Raku-yaki and Ohi-yaki, often resulting in natural markings on the surface. This item also exhibits such markings.

However, it is a charming incense container with a deep and lustrous glaze, radiating beauty in its understated simplicity.