Accession Number
2012/1.264A&B

Title
Leaf Shaped Incense Burner

Artist(s)
Harada Shūroku

Medium & Support
unglazed stoneware

Dimensions
2 1/2 x 2 1/2 x 3 13/16 in. (6.35 x 6.35 x 9.53 cm)

Credit Line
Gift of the Estate of Anne L. McGrew

Label copy
These remarkable wares are by two of most active potters working in the historic kiln towns of Shigaraki and Bizen. The pottery traditions of these towns are similar in technique and aesthetics, such as the use of local, earth-toned clay and the rejection of glazing in favor of the unpredictable surface effects of heat and natural ash created during firing. In the Momoyama (1573–1615) and early Edo (1615–1868) periods, the simple and rustic aesthetic of Shigaraki and Bizen wares were highly regarded by tea ceremony practitioners. Both Kohyama, who works in Shigaraki, and Harada, who works in Bizen, create bold, sculptural works that are based on their
intensive study of historic wares from these periods. Harada’s box is meant for the storage of incense; a slight fragrance would have been emitted from a small hole at the top. The orange-colored areas were created by wrapping straw around the body of the piece; in the kiln, the straw would burn and leave scorch marks.
Spring/Summer Gallery Rotation 2015

Subject matter
An incense box meant for storing incense. A slight amount of fragrance would be emitted through the small hole in the top.

Physical Description
A ceramic incense box in beige and reddish orange color. Shaped like a closed flower bud with smaller leaves covering it.

Primary Object Classification
Ceramic

Primary Object Type
incense burner

Collection Area
Asian

Rights
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