Japonista
Incensario shishi de cerámica Bizen, kōro de león guardián en gres sin esmaltar, estilo del período Edo, 15.5 cm
Incensario shishi de cerámica Bizen, kōro de león guardián en gres sin esmaltar, estilo del período Edo, 15.5 cm
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Crouched and ready to pounce, its mane and tail drawn in dramatic stylized rhythm, this Bizen ware shishi reads as sculpture first and ritual object second. Flame and ash rather than pigment give the unglazed stoneware its depth, and as a koro the guardian becomes the vessel that holds atmosphere.
The Piece
A compact but intensely expressive Bizen ware shishi incense burner (koro): a guardian lion captured in a crouched, ready-to-pounce posture with a dramatic stylized mane and tail. At approximately 15.5 cm wide and 15.0 cm tall, it reads as sculpture first, ritual object second.
In Japan, shishi imagery functions as protective symbolism, with guardians placed at thresholds and sacred precincts. As a koro the motif gains a second layer: incense becomes architectural mood, and the guardian form becomes the vessel that holds the atmosphere.
Bizen is high-fired unglazed stoneware in which flame and ash create depth instead of pigment. Collectors value its kiln-born surface character and sculptural integrity, qualities this studio work, made in the Edo-period style, carries into a small and forceful form.
Details
- Line: Bizen ware (Bizen-yaki)
- Era: Edo-period style studio work; older piece, period not confirmed
- Origin: Japan
- Material: High-fired unglazed stoneware
- Measurements: Approx. 15.5 cm W × 11.5 cm D × 15.0 cm H
- Form: Shishi guardian lion incense burner (koro)
Condition
- An older piece with age-related wear.
- A repair to the tail area is noted.
- Please review the photographs carefully and confirm stability before functional incense use.
Authenticity & Care
Offered as a Bizen ware studio work in the Edo-period style; an older keyword note referring to a 51 cm bronze incense burner belongs to a different piece and does not describe this koro. Every piece is examined and documented in Japan before dispatch and is offered with the Japonista authenticity guarantee.
Delivery from Japan
Packed by hand in Japan and shipped insured and tracked by EMS or an equivalent express service. Import duties and taxes, where applicable, are payable on arrival. Returns follow our published policy.
Considered offers are welcome through Send an Offer, and each one is reviewed personally. Pieces over $1,000 may be reserved over several payments with Layaway Privilege™.
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Collectors also search: bizen shishi koro · bizen ware incense burner · japanese stoneware incense burner · guardian lion koro · bizen yaki shishi · unglazed stoneware lion censer · tokonoma incense burner
