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Antique Japanese Bronze Koro Incense Burner with Dragon Relief - Meiji Period Altar Censer
€465Bid from €418.50
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Private sellerDamme, GermanyOn Whoppah since February 2025 • 3 sales
Product description
Physical Dimensions & Condition Height: 18.0 cm | Width: 16.5 cm | Weight: 1.2 kg This antique Japanese Koro incense burner (18 cm) from the Meiji period is a refined example of traditional Japanese bronze casting. The square burner is richly decorated all around with powerful reliefs of mythological dragons moving among stylized clouds and floral ornaments. The handles are crafted as elegant dragon heads, and the original, perfectly fitting lid is crowned by an elegant lotus bud (hoju). The deep dark brown patina, combined with visible remnants of historical fire gilding, gives this object an exceptional appearance and makes it a special collector's item for enthusiasts of Japanese altar art.
The Philosophical & Spiritual Significance: Why this object is special
For centuries, a Koro has been at the heart of Buddhist rituals and home altars in Japan. Incense symbolizes the purification of body and mind and is seen as an offering to the Buddha and ancestors.
Japanese Dragon (Ryū): Within Japanese tradition, the dragon symbolizes protection, wisdom, prosperity, and control over natural elements.
Lotus Bud (Hoju): The finial of the lid refers to spiritual purity, enlightenment, and the precious jewel that fulfills all wishes.
Altar Function: Korō were used during daily Buddhist rituals, meditation, and ancestor veneration, where rising incense symbolizes the connection between the earthly and spiritual worlds.
Timeless Decoration: Thanks to its powerful design and rich patina, this object forms an impressive work of art suitable for both classic and modern interiors.
Material & Craftsmanship Analysis
Meiji Bronze Casting: The burner is crafted from high-quality cast bronze with sharply detailed reliefs, characteristic of the refined metalwork from the Meiji period.
Historical Gilding: Remnants of the original fire gilding are still visible in the recessed areas of the decoration, giving the relief extra depth and vibrancy.
Original Ensemble: Burner and lid originally belong together and fit perfectly, an important quality characteristic for antique Japanese Korō.
Authentic Patina: The interior shows historical traces of incense use and natural oxidation, while the exterior possesses a rich dark brown patina that develops solely through long-term aging.
Specifications
Height: 18.0 cm
Width: 16.5 cm
Weight: 1.2 kg
Origin: Japan
Period: Meiji period (1868–1912)
Material: Bronze with remnants of historical fire gilding
Decoration: Dragon relief, dragon head handles, and lotus bud (hoju)
Application: Suitable for incense sticks or incense cones (with incense ash)
Condition: Excellent authentic antique condition with original patina; lid and burner originally belong together
Additional details:
- Brand: 1stbuddha
- Style: traditioneel Japans
- Material: vuurvergulding
- Colour: donkerbruine
- Period: Meiji-periode (1868–1912)
- availability: in_stock
Specifications
CategoryDecorative ObjectsConditionVery goodMaterialBronzeSeller locationDamme, GermanyDelivery optionsDelivery or pickup
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Seller information
About this seller
Private sellerDamme, GermanyOn Whoppah since February 2025 • 3 sales