Vintage Japanese Kenzan-Style Incense Burner by Shisen Asano

A beautifully preserved vintage Japanese incense burner by ceramic artist Shisen Asano (浅野紫仙) of Yamazaki Kiln (山崎窯).

Created in the Kenzan utsushi tradition, this compact ceramic koro is richly decorated across its rounded body and raised on three small feet.

Despite measuring only approximately 7 cm, the piece has an exceptionally detailed and ornamental presence.

The pierced lid, intricate surface decoration, metallic gold-toned accents, rounded body, and elegant tripod construction give the small vessel the presence of a miniature decorative sculpture.

SHISEN ASANO — YAMAZAKI KILN

This piece is attributed to Shisen Asano of Yamazaki Kiln and is accompanied by its original signed wooden tomobako storage box.

Asano's work appears across traditional Japanese tea wares, including tea bowls, incense vessels, and other ceramics inspired by historical Japanese decorative traditions.

KENZAN UTSUSHI

The piece is identified as Kenzan utsushi (乾山写).

“Utsushi” in Japanese craft refers to a work created in conscious reference to an established historical style or celebrated artistic tradition.

Here, the decorative approach references the tradition associated with Kenzan ware while remaining a work by Shisen Asano.

INCENSE BURNER

The vessel is constructed as a small three-legged koro with a removable pierced lid.

The openwork lid allows incense smoke to escape while also creating an ornamental focal point at the top of the vessel.

Its compact dimensions make the density of decoration particularly striking.

Beyond its traditional use as an incense burner, the piece can be appreciated as a small Japanese ceramic art object and displayed alongside tea utensils, ceramics, lacquerware, or other collected objects.

SIZE

Approx. 7 cm / 2.76 in high
Approx. 7 cm / 2.76 in wide

Artist: Shisen Asano (浅野紫仙)
Kiln: Yamazaki Kiln (山崎窯)
Style: Kenzan Utsushi (乾山写)
Type: Koro / Japanese incense burner
Origin: Japan
Period: Vintage

Includes original wooden tomobako storage box.

CONDITION

Excellent vintage condition.

The incense burner has been very well preserved and remains in remarkably beautiful overall condition.

No noticeable chips, cracks, or major damage.

Very minor signs associated with age or storage may be present. Please refer carefully to the photographs for the exact condition.

Variations in the glaze, decoration, surface texture, and firing are inherent characteristics of handcrafted ceramics and are not considered defects.

This is a one-of-a-kind vintage piece. The photographs show the actual item you will receive.