Japanese Meiji Period Carved Ivory Kōgō Incense Box With Gilt Butterflies, С1880

Details

Description

A finely crafted Japanese carved ivory incense box (kōgō), dating to the Meiji period, circa 1880.

This elegant circular box … Read more A finely crafted Japanese carved ivory incense box (kōgō), dating to the Meiji period, circa 1880.

This elegant circular box is masterfully carved from solid ivory and decorated with delicate gilt ornamentation. The domed lid is centered with a sculptural butterfly motif rendered in gold against an intricately carved geometric reserve. Surrounding the lid and body are finely engraved scrolling floral designs highlighted with gold, creating a refined contrast against the warm, natural patina of the ivory.

Boxes of this type, known in Japan as kōgō, were traditionally used during the tea ceremony to hold small pieces of incense placed on charcoal during the ritual. These intimate objects were prized not only for their function but also as small works of art reflecting the aesthetic ideals of the tea culture.

The present example displays the refined craftsmanship associated with the Meiji period, a time when Japanese artisans produced exquisitely detailed decorative objects both for domestic appreciation and for collectors abroad.

The butterfly motif is particularly symbolic in Japanese art, representing joy, transformation, and the fleeting beauty of nature — themes deeply connected to the philosophy of the tea ceremony.

Boxes of this type were traditionally placed on a small lacquered tray during the charcoal-laying stage of the tea ceremony, alongside the incense burner and charcoal utensils. Inside, they would contain small pieces of precious aromatic wood or prepared incense such as nerikō, which were placed upon glowing charcoal to gently perfume the tea room. Guests were often invited to admire the kōgō itself, passing it carefully from hand to hand and quietly appreciating both the craftsmanship and the subtle fragrance — a practice poetically described in Japan as “listening to the incense.”

Fine ivory examples from the Meiji period, such as the present piece, are today considered rare and highly collectible objects of Japanese decorative art.

With its harmonious proportions, beautiful ivory patina and subtle gold ornamentation, this small box stands as a charming cabinet-sized object of art and an elegant example of Meiji period ivory craftsmanship.

Details:
Origin: Japan
Period: Meiji period
Date: circa 1880–1900
Material: Carved ivory with gilt decoration

Dimensions:
Diameter: 2.36 in (60 mm)
Height with lid: 1.18 in (30 mm)

Condition:
Good antique condition with natural patina and small, hairline cracks that are almost invisible but quite expected on an item of this age. As this was not a decorative souvenir but an object intended for regular use, it shows signs of handling and use from its original purpose. The box remains in good, honest condition with expected wear appropriate for its age and function. See less