A Japanese Takaoka copperware incense burner in the form of three aubergines, with a removable pierced lid and a richly varied, dark-toned surface. The rounded fruits are gathered into a compact cluster, while pointed leaves and branching stems give the upper section an open, sculptural outline. Three swelling lobes form the body. Their smooth curves are interrupted by raised leaves with clearly defined central veins and smaller branching lines. The foliage follows the contours of the fruit, creating a rhythm of broad surfaces and sharper relief. Three short, rounded feet support the vessel and lift the lower body slightly above the surface beneath it. The lid continues the botanical design. Broad, pointed calyces overlap the shoulders of the aubergines, and three curved stems rise towards a short, flat-topped finial. Openings between the stems and beneath the leaves form part of the pierced construction. Their irregular shapes allow the dark interior to remain visible and give depth to the upper silhouette. Removing the lid reveals the hollow chamber and an undulating rim that follows the clustered form. The exterior combines deep brown and near-black areas with coppery ochre, warm bronze-coloured passages and scattered blue-green accents. These colours vary across the fruit, foliage and stems rather than forming a uniform coating. Some areas are gently reflective, while others have a more granular texture. Light catches the raised veins, leaf edges and rounded surfaces, bringing out the contrast between the flowing body and the more angular upper details. Viewed from different sides, the three-part composition produces changing overlaps of fruit, leaves and openings. The underside repeats the clustered outline, with the small feet spaced around the base. Its compact scale allows the modelling and surface colour to be appreciated at close range, whether displayed on a cabinet, a shelf or a low table. Approximate dimensions: Height: 12.5 cm Width: 10.5 cm The burner shows light surface wear and small marks consistent with handling and storage. Rubbing is visible on projecting details, including the flat top of the stem finial, and the surface has small pits and uneven areas. The interior is dark with an irregular finish. The richly mottled exterior and the sharply modelled foliage give this small Japanese incense burner a distinctive decorative character. This listing contains AI Visualisations. Please refer to the original photographs for the actual object condition.