Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
An exquisite Japanese lacquer incense container (*kōgō*) decorated in the refined *Kōdai-ji maki-e* style. The outer lid depicts a serene landscape with a thatched hut, weeping willow, and geometric diaper patterns, framed by a reddish-brown lacquer body with geometric interlocking band design around the rim.
Story
Rooted in early 17th-century Kyoto aesthetic shifts, *Kōdai-ji maki-e* emerged during the Momoyama and early Edo periods to decorate Kodai-ji temple, founded by Toyotomi Hideyoshi's widow, Nene. The style revolutionized Japanese lacquer art by combining bold gold designs with dark lacquer to create striking visual contrast for tea ceremony objects.
Maker / Origin
Crafted by skilled lacquer artisans in Kyoto following the tradition of Kodai-ji style lacquerware (*Kōdai-ji maki-e*). Rather than focusing on a single master signature, these tea culture pieces reflect collaborative workshop mastery where carvers, lacquerers, and *maki-e* gold-dust painters worked together to create vessels for high-ranking tea masters (*suki-sha*).
Condition & Value
Visually well-preserved with excellent retention of gold maki-e and interior nashiji finish. Minor expected surface wear along the rims and base consistent with age and tea room usage.
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Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.