Kawasemi Incense Burner

This cult incense burner represents a kingfisher, kawasemi in Japanese, at the riverside. Also called the flying jewel, the kingfisher is a symbol of loving happiness and beauty. Its lovely iridescent plumage and colouring make it recognizable right away.

The Kawasemi incense burner was made following Kutani ceramic techniques. It is a unique highly refined piece of art, a precious gift and an essential part of home decoration in Japan. Fill it with pressed rice ashes and nail Japanese incense sticks in them. Having no bamboo core, they will burn completely without leaving a trace.

About Kutani ceramic
Ceramic has been made in the town of Kutani - Ishikawa prefecture - Japan since the middle of the XVIIth century. It is worldwide known for two different types of ceramics: the first one consists of gold-painted patterns, which are easily made as gold is abundant in the area; the second one is the superposition of thick layers of five colours, called go-sai: red, yellow, green, purple and dark blue. The designs Kutani craftsmen are famous for are bold representations of nature. This is a very rich and luxurious style, as proven by this rare and delightful incense burner.