Preliminary identification

Kenzan-Style Square Incense Burner with Silver Plover Lid

Photo reference

5 uploaded photos

Overview

An exquisite square ceramic koro (incense burner) decorated with a snowy landscape and figures in the classic style of Ogata Kenzan.

Story

Created as a brilliant homage to Edo-period master Ogata Kenzan, this vessel captures the quiet stillness of a winter's day. The silver lid features delicate cutouts of plovers, allowing sweet incense smoke to drift out like birds rising into a snowy sky.

Maker / Origin

The ceramic body is executed in the style of Ogata Kenzan (1663–1743), one of Japan's most celebrated potters. This specific piece is accompanied by an authentication box (kiwamebako) inscribed by Kiyomizu Rokubei V (1875–1959), a titan of Kyoto's ceramic dynasty, while the silver lid bears the mark of master silversmith Kawachi Muneaki.

Condition & Value

The ceramic body shows minor glaze flaking and small chips along the upper rim, which is common for low-fired Kyoto earthenware of this age. The silver lid has developed a beautiful, natural dark patina. These minor condition issues are typical and do not severely impact the value of such a historic tea utensil.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Build on this identification

Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.

Market Analysis

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.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.