Takaokadoki - Incense burner - casting

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Item Description
Takaoka Bronze Ware "Fukuseiju" (Lucky Eggplant) Incense Burner - A Symbol of Fortune and Achievement
This exquisite incense burner is a masterwork of Takaoka bronze craft, shaped in the form of an eggplant (nasu) and named "Fukuseiju" (福成寿), which cleverly combines the characters for "fortune" (福) and "longevity" (寿) with the Japanese word for eggplant, creating a powerful symbol of prosperity and achievement.
The eggplant motif holds deep significance in Japanese culture, as referenced in the famous proverb "Ichi Fuji, Ni Taka, San Nasubi" (一富士二鷹三茄子) - "First Mount Fuji, Second Hawks, Third Eggplant" - traditionally considered the most auspicious symbols to see in one's first dream of the New Year. The word "nasubi" (eggplant) phonetically echoes "nasu" (成す), meaning "to accomplish" or "to achieve," making this piece a meaningful talisman for success.
Originally from India, the eggplant became a prized and noble vegetable in Japan, with its rich purple color historically associated with royalty and high status. This incense burner beautifully captures the natural form of the eggplant with its characteristic leaves rendered in meticulous detail at the crown.
The piece showcases the renowned coloring techniques of Takaoka bronze craft, featuring a sophisticated palette of gold-highlighted leaves against deep bronze and verdigris green patina. The surface treatment demonstrates the exceptional "chakushoku" (着色) coloring technique that Takaoka artisans have perfected over 400 years of tradition.
Takaoka bronzeware, designated as Japan's first Traditional Craft in 1975, originated in 1611 when Lord Maeda Toshinaga invited seven master casters to Toyama Prefecture. Today, Takaoka produces over 90% of Japan's bronze artwork, with pieces exhibited in museums worldwide and displayed at international expositions including the Paris World's Fair.
This incense burner was created as a commemorative gift for a "Jokun" (叙勲) ceremony - a government decoration or medal presentation - as indicated by the included wooden plaque. Such commemorative items were traditionally presented to celebrate significant honors and achievements, making this piece historically meaningful as well as artistically valuable.
The set includes a refined lacquered display tray adorned with an elegant chrysanthemum (kiku) medallion, symbolizing longevity and nobility in Japanese culture. Complete with original fitted box and documentation paper explaining the cultural significance of the piece.
An exceptional decorative art piece that combines traditional Japanese metalworking mastery with profound cultural symbolism - perfect for collectors of Japanese bronze art, tea ceremony enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a meaningful object representing fortune and success.
My Message:
Thank you for viewing my item. I operate a recycling shop in Japan. I joined Catawiki because I want to share fine Japanese craftsmanship and historical items with the world. If you have any questions about this item, please feel free to message me anytime. With gratitude to everyone - "ARIGATO"

Size
Height: 12.5 cm
Width: 10 cm
Depth: 10 cm

Weight
920 g

Condition
Unused condition with original box and documentation; the bronze surface shows excellent coloring with no damage, chips, or repairs.

Artist Profile
This piece is a product of the Takaoka bronze craft tradition (高岡銅器), a collective artisanal heritage rather than a single artist's work. Takaoka bronzeware has been produced in Toyama Prefecture since 1611 and was designated as Japan's first National Traditional Craft in 1975. The tradition involves specialized craftsmen working in collaboration - from pattern makers and casters to polishers, engravers, and coloring specialists - representing over 400 years of accumulated expertise in Japanese metalworking.

Catawiki出品項目

Title of Artwork: "Fukuseiju" Lucky Eggplant Incense Burner - Auspicious Symbol of Fortune
Artist: Takaoka Bronze Craft (高岡銅器)
Object type: Incense burner (Koro)
Material: Bronze with gold and verdigris patina
Technique: Traditional Takaoka casting and coloring (chakushoku)
Period: Late 20th century (Showa/Heisei period)
Region of origin: Takaoka, Toyama Prefecture, Japan
Condition: Unused, excellent
Height: 12.5 cm
Width: 10 cm
Depth: 10 cm
Weight: 920 g
Includes: Original fitted box (tomobako), lacquered display tray with chrysanthemum emblem, commemorative wooden plaque, documentation paper