Japanese Raku kōgō (香合) with Paulownia Motif
This finely crafted Raku incense case (kōgō) by Raku Studio Waraku in Kyoto takes the form of the paulownia, or kiri (桐), a motif deeply rooted in Japanese decorative tradition.
The lid is modeled with the distinctive leaves and blossoms of the paulownia, rendered in a rich, glossy reddish-brown Raku glaze. Delicately incised veins articulate each leaf, while the raised floral details give the small vessel a sculptural, tactile quality.
Opening the kōgō reveals a striking contrast. The interior is finished in a vivid green glaze scattered with gold accents, creating an unexpectedly luminous, jewel-like surface against the restrained brown exterior.
In Japan, the paulownia has long carried associations with nobility, auspiciousness, and prosperity. The stylized kiri-mon (paulownia crest) has been used for centuries as an important heraldic and decorative motif, making its appearance particularly fitting for an object connected to the ritual world of tea.
A kōgō (香合) is a small lidded container traditionally used to hold incense during the Japanese tea ceremony. Here, Raku Studio Waraku transforms this intimate tea utensil into a richly detailed seasonal and symbolic object, balancing the warmth and spontaneity of Raku with the elegance of a classical Japanese motif.
The piece is gently wrapped in cloth and presented in a traditional paulownia wood (kiri) box bearing the studio’s stamped seal, completing the presentation with the quiet refinement characteristic of Japanese craft.
Dimensions: W 3.75" x L 3.5" x H 1"
Handcrafted in Kyoto, Japan.
About Raku Studio Waraku: The kiln was established around 1830 in the Gion district of Kyoto. The original kiln name was Tanzakuya. The given name of the first master was Hitizaemon, but the name Tanzakuya came from Tanzaku-rou, a teahouse located just in front of the main gate of the Yasaka Shrine, where Hitizaemon was the proprietor.
In 1918, Admiral Heihachirou Togo visited the kiln and during his visit penned the characters for “Waraku.” Wa refers to harmony, raku refers to joy. The 4th Generation Master, Shohiti Kawasaki, was grateful for the honour bestowed by Admiral Togo and changed the name of the kiln to Raku Studio Waraku, which is still the name as the kiln reaches its 8th generation master.
Raku Studio Waraku is proud of its 180 years of tradition; the Kawasaki family is determined to preserve and continue the 400 year history of raku ceramics for future generations.
