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The incense burner has a soft whitish-gray glaze decorated with bold black/gray calligraphy and iron-painted designs. It features a rounded three-footed form with decorative sculptural handles on each side and darker glaze accents around the rim and handles.
The original wooden tomobako is an important part of the piece and is decorated on multiple sides with hand-painted botanical designs, Japanese calligraphy and red seals.
The inscription on the top of the box appears to include:
鉄絵唐津 — Tetsue Karatsu
Approximately “Iron-Painted Karatsu”
香炉 — Kōro
“Incense Burner”
Additional writing and seals appear to identify or relate to the artist/maker. The exact maker, age and complete translation of the inscriptions have not been professionally authenticated, so detailed photographs of all markings are included for collector review.
Measurements
Incense burner measures approximately:
- 3 3/4 inches tall
- 3 3/4 inches wide at the widest point
Included
- Japanese Tetsue Karatsu pottery incense burner
- Original painted and inscribed wooden tomobako storage box
- Fabric box ties
A wonderful small piece of traditional Japanese pottery that displays beautifully, especially with its original decorated and inscribed box.
Please examine all photographs carefully, as they are an important part of the description and condition.
Item Specifics
Type: Incense Burner / Koro
Style: Karatsu
Production Technique: Tetsue / Iron-Painted
Country/Region of Origin: Japan
Material: Ceramic / Pottery
Color: Whitish Gray, Black, Gray
Original/Reproduction: Original
Vintage: Yes
Handmade: Yes
Features: Signed/Inscribed, Hand Painted, Original Wooden Box, Japanese Calligraphy
Box: Original Tomobako
The damaged item
All original packaging
The shipping box
Packing materials