Ceramic Kōgō by Okano Hosei and Japanese nerikō (incense balls)

In the art of Japanese incense, the kōgō is a small precious box that preserves and highlights the nerikō, these refined incense pastilles made from precious woods and spices.

Together, they embody a sensory tradition that is part of the elegance of gestures and the subtlety of perfumes that Atelier Ikiwa was keen to celebrate by offering a rigorous selection of superb kōgō signed by renowned ceramists accompanied by their box of nerikō to help you discover this little-known art.

This small kōgō was made by Okano Hosei, a Japanese ceramicist born in 1937. He is known for his unglazed ceramic works, slowly fired in wood-fired kilns, highlighting the natural hues of Shigaraki clay and the effects of molten ash, reflecting a raw and authentic aesthetic.

With a square shape of great balance, it is accompanied by its protective box made of paulownia wood (tomobako) bearing the inscription of the work, as well as the signature and official seal of the craftsman, and its protective cloth (tomonuno) turmeric with the seal of the craftsman. A document (shiori) with its profile is also included.

To enjoy the kōgō as intended, a box of nerikō is also included. This box contains 36 nerikō beads, each composed of a delicately scented blend (based on sandalwood) designed by one of the oldest incense houses in Kyoto. To use them, place 2-3 in the kōgō, and leave the lid ajar. If you want to stop the diffusion of the scent, simply close the lid. The nerikō beads should be replaced when they become dry. Be careful to keep the unused nerikō in the hermetically sealed plastic bag so that they do not dry out.

To discover the art of Japanese kōgō and nerikō, we invite you to read the article we wrote on the subject, available via this link . Other kōgō are available on the site, feel free to browse our selection.