INCENSE CONTAINER, Sawankhalok Ware, Middle Ages（12th–16th centuries）

Pottery produced at the ancient kiln site of Sawankhalok in Thailand from the 14th century onward was imported to Japan during the Momoyama period through the early Edo period, where it was cherished by tea masters as tea utensils, referred to as Song Hu Lu or Sunko Rok. This ware predominantly features works that emulate the celadon and blue-and-white porcelain from the Longquan kiln of the Song and Yuan dynasties in China, characterized by a semi-porcelain body adorned with ash-glazed celadon, iron underglaze, and white slip. The present piece is a lidded incense container, embellished with rustic patterns in iron underglaze. Over time, its surface has developed a beautiful patina, with signs of wear and fraying that add to its charm.