Container - Bird and Arrowroot - Incense Container Kogo by Yachi Naoto (谷内直人)

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【Product details】

This exquisite incense container (kogo) is the work of Wajima-based lacquer artist Yachi Naoto (b. 1959), presented in a luxurious double original box (signed wooden box and black lacquered outer box), each bearing his signature and seal. A white cloth with red seal is also included, though it has some stains from age.

The lid features a charming depiction of a sparrow perched among arrowroot leaves and blossoms, rendered over a shimmering nashiji (gold flake) background. The sparrow’s eye is delicately inlaid with mother-of-pearl, adding a subtle iridescence and refinement. In Japanese symbolism, sparrows are associated with community, cheerfulness, and protection, while arrowroot represents resilience and growth.

The interior is finished in lavish all-over nashiji, demonstrating the rich texture and elegance characteristic of Wajima lacquerware.

Yachi Naoto was born in 1959 in Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture. He studied under the lacquer master Sakurai Ichiryo and graduated from the Wajima Lacquerware Technical Training Institute in 1986.

His accolades include:
– 7-time exhibitor at the Japan New Crafts Exhibition (1 award)
– 3-time exhibitor at the Ishikawa Prefectural Contemporary Art Exhibition (2 awards)
– 22-time exhibitor at the Traditional Wajima Lacquerware Exhibition (13 awards, including multiple Gold Prizes and Top Honours; exempt from jury review 5 times)
– Two works held in the collection of the Wajima Museum of Urushi Art
– Numerous group exhibitions and one solo exhibition

The base of the container bears the artist’s signature. The piece is in excellent condition. Please refer to the images for further details.

Dimensions: approx. H 1.7 cm W 7 cm D 7 cm

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Thank you for your interest, and happy bidding!