A vintage Japanese kogo, or incense container, created in the sculptural form of a tiger, one of the twelve animals of the Japanese zodiac.
The compact ceramic form depicts a resting tiger with bold hand-painted black stripes across a warm ivory-toned body. Its simplified shape and expressive markings give the piece an unusually graphic and almost contemporary presence.
The division between the lid and base is incorporated directly into the body, allowing the piece to appear as a small ceramic tiger sculpture when closed.
The original storage box bears the name “Kizan” (貴山). Further details regarding the artist or kiln have not been conclusively identified.
Traditionally, kogo are small containers used to hold incense during the Japanese tea ceremony. Today, this piece can equally be appreciated as a collectible Japanese ceramic object or small animal sculpture.
The tiger (tora) is one of the twelve animals of the Japanese zodiac and has traditionally been associated with courage and strength.
DIMENSIONS
Approx. 7 cm / 2.76 in long
Approx. 3 cm / 1.18 in high
CONDITION
Excellent vintage condition with no noticeable signs of use or damage.
Please refer to the photographs for details.
Includes its original signed storage box.
A distinctive Japanese ceramic object combining traditional tea culture with an expressive and highly graphic animal form.
