This elegant kōgō (香盒) is a refined work of Kutani ware (九谷焼) by Yamagami Chikuho (山上竹鳳), accompanied by its original signed wooden box and artist’s biography sheet. The piece is formed in a geometric, faceted shape that feels both modern and architectural, while remaining firmly rooted in traditional Japanese ceramic aesthetics.
The surface is finished in a soft, milky white glaze, serving as a calm canvas for delicately hand-painted floral motifs. Stylized blossoms in gentle shades of coral pink and yellow are accented with fine details, while flowing gold lines add rhythm and elegance across the form. The restrained use of gold is characteristic of Kutani ware, lending the piece a sense of refinement without excess and creating a harmonious balance between color, space, and form.
The kōgō opens cleanly at the midline, revealing precise craftsmanship and careful proportion, making it well-suited for holding incense during tea gatherings. Its compact size and sculptural presence also allow it to be appreciated as a standalone object when not in use.
Yamagami Chikuho is known for blending classical Kutani decorative techniques with a contemporary sensibility, and this kōgō exemplifies that approach. Both functional and collectible, it reflects the quiet sophistication of Kutani ware and makes a beautiful addition to a tea ceremony collection or for collectors who appreciate fine Japanese ceramics with provenance.
