A vintage Japanese kogo, or incense container, created in the sculptural form of a sheep, one of the twelve animals of the Japanese zodiac.
The entire vessel is shaped as a resting sheep, with carefully modeled curled horns and textured details across the body. A warm, softly colored glaze covers the ceramic surface, with a fine crackle pattern that gives the piece additional depth and character.
The division between the lid and base is discreetly incorporated into the body of the animal, allowing the functional incense container to read almost entirely as a small ceramic sculpture when closed.
Traditionally, kogo are small containers used to hold incense during the Japanese tea ceremony. Outside of this traditional context, the piece can also be appreciated simply as a sculptural Japanese ceramic object.
The sheep (hitsuji) is one of the twelve animals of the Japanese zodiac.
DIMENSIONS
Approx. 6.5 cm / 2.56 in wide
Approx. 6.5 cm / 2.56 in high
CONDITION
Very good vintage condition with light signs of age.
No noticeable major damage.
Please refer to the photographs for the individual condition and surface details.
Includes its original storage box.
A distinctive vintage Japanese ceramic combining functional tea ware with an expressive animal form.
