This vintage sheep-shaped kōgō (香合) was commissioned by Tankō Center (淡交センター), the renowned publisher and supplier dedicated to the world of the Japanese tea ceremony. Working closely with skilled artisans and celebrated kilns across Japan, Tankō Center has long produced seasonal tea utensils that embody the refined aesthetics of chanoyu.
This charming sheep, rendered in softly glazed ceramic, features a minimalist silhouette accented with delicate geometric motifs in red, green, and gold. Designed as an incense container for the tea ceremony, it opens into two halves to hold a small amount of kneaded incense (nerikō) or fragrant wood chips. In tea gatherings, the kōgō is appreciated not only as a functional vessel but also as a seasonal object that quietly reflects the host's taste and the changing calendar.
The sheep (hitsuji) is one of the twelve animals of the Japanese zodiac and symbolizes peace, harmony, kindness, and gentle prosperity. Its calm expression and elegant form make this piece equally suitable as a tea utensil or as a refined decorative object.
Presented in its original signed box, this is a wonderful example of the collaboration between Japan's traditional ceramic artists and the tea ceremony community, preserving both craftsmanship and cultural heritage.
