Paulownia-shaped Incense Container 桐 香合（きり こうごう） – Touhou Tezuka 手塚桐鳳（てづか とうほう）with tomobako This finely crafted incense container features the traditional paulownia emblem, a motif historically associated with dignity, prosperity, and auspicious power. In East Asian lore, the paulownia tree is believed to be the sacred perch of the phoenix. Over centuries, its symbolism has been embraced in Japan—from imperial insignia to the emblem adopted by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and later as an official government crest used by ministries including the Prime Minister’s office. This piece carries that legacy of refinement and status through its elegant form and detailed Kyoto-style workmanship. The vessel is shaped with crisp contours and highlighted with white and gold accents, contrasted against a vibrant turquoise glaze. The interior displays warm reddish tones, offering a striking visual balance. A beautifully preserved example of Kyoto ceramics from the late 20th century. --- Artist Profile Touhou Tezuka 手塚桐鳳（てづか とうほう） The Touhou Tezuka kiln was overseen and developed under the guidance of Sekiun Tezuka, founder of Kachou kiln. Sekiun Tezuka 手塚石雲（てづか せきうん） • Born in Kyoto, 1942 • Established Kanshuji kiln in Yamashina, Kyoto in 1971 • In 2002, received the kiln name “Kachou kiln” and the ceramic name “Sekiun” from Zen master Myoho Takada of Daitokuji • Opened Kachou kiln in Saga, Kyoto in 2003 --- Accessories Tomobako (signed wooden box) --- Dimensions & Weight Incense container: 9 × 8 × 2.5 cm Weight: 99.5 g With accessories: 11 × 10 × 5.5 cm Total pre-packing weight: 174 g --- Technique & Condition Material: Ceramic (stoneware clay) Technique: Kyoto ware / Japanese pottery Condition: Excellent --- Shipping Shipping via Japan Post EMS from Japan. Items are securely packed to ensure safe international delivery. Please note that I can ship only to countries where EMS delivery from Japan is available. For bidders in the United States: Please be aware that additional import duties or tariffs may be applied by U.S. Customs, and the amounts can be significantly high depending on the item and the current regulations. If you choose to place a bid, please do so with full understanding of the possible customs charges. Import duties, VAT, and customs handling fees are the sole responsibility of the buyer.