Shoraku-klin (昭楽窯) - Shoraku Sasaki (佐々木昭楽) - Case - Clay - がらん石 香合

An exquisite and characterful Japanese Raku ware incense container (Kougou / 香合) crafted by the Kyoto ceramic artist Sasaki Shoraku III (三代 佐々木昭楽).

This piece is formed in the shape of a "Garan-seki" (伽藍石 — foundation stone of a Buddhist temple pillar).

Historically, Garan-seki refers to the stone foundations that supported the heavy wooden pillars of ancient Japanese Buddhist temples. As old temples fell into disuse over centuries, tea masters during the Muromachi and Edo periods recognized the profound aesthetic beauty (Wabi-sabi) in these weathered stones, repurposing them into stepping stones for tea gardens (Roji).

Eventually, master potters during the Momoyama period translated this architectural motif into small incense containers (Kougou) for the Japanese Tea Ceremony (Chanoyu). The indented central square and rugged, unglazed stone-like texture evoke a sense of quiet rustic austerity and deep history.

Sasaki Shoraku III (born 1944) operates the Shoraku Kiln in Kyoto (moved near Kameoka / Yada Shrine in 1944). The Shoraku kiln is widely recognized for producing high-quality Raku tea utensils closely associated with famous tea masters and historical reproductions (Utsushi).

[Condition]
Excellent condition with no chips, cracks, or repairs. Comes with the original signed wooden box (Tomobako) and the artist's informational leaflet (Shiori).

[Dimensions & Weight]
Height: 3.5 cm
Width: 5.0 cm
Depth: 5.0 cm
Weight: 113 g


[Shipping & Environment]
Eco-Friendly Packaging:
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