Kirin Incense Burner by Sawada Hiroyuki

Description

No other tea ceremony accessory has quite the same spiritual function as kōro.  Incense wafting from the holes in the lid helps to clear the mind, making participants more attuned to the tranquility inside the tea room.  More than just mere burners, however, kōro should be creative pieces as well.

This spirited incense burner is a proud display of Sawada Hiroyuki's impeccable forming skill.  It is modeled after the mythical creature known as Kirin.  A curious hybrid of dragon, horse, and giraffe, Kirin is said to possess magical powers which it uses to fight evil.  It is a hero in Japanese folklore and a common theme in wood-block illustrations.

Although kōro of this type are traditionally used for holding pieces of smoldering charcoal upon which powdered incense is burned, this piece can accommodate stick or cone types as well.  It also makes the ideal centerpiece for any Japanese-influenced interior or modern décor.

A wooden presentation box will be custom made to order and signed by the artist.  Delivery time for this item is 2 weeks.

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