Takaoka Metalwork 16 arhat Incense Burner

Takaoka Metalwork 16 arhat Incense Burner

Sixteen Rakan (Arhats), the enlightened disciples said to have followed the Buddha's teachings, are depicted in fine relief around the tall body of this incense burner. The imposing scale and richly detailed figures give the piece a solemn, temple-like presence suited to a place of quiet reflection.

This piece is a work of Takaoka copperware (Takaoka douki), a metal-casting craft from Takaoka, Toyama Prefecture, with a history of more than 400 years dating back to the early Edo period. Local artisans use traditional sand-mold casting to shape the tall body, then hand engrave the sixteen figures and apply a lacquer finish with gold, silver, and copper inlay plating that brings subtle color contrast to the design.

How to Use

Fill the bowl partway with incense ash, then place a lit incense cone, cored charcoal, or an incense stick into the ash. The metal body helps diffuse the fragrance evenly through the room, and the piece also makes an impressive display object even when not in use.

Product Details

Material: Copper, lacquer finish with gold, silver, and copper inlay plating
Size: 23.5 x 17.7 x 50.5 cm (9.25 x 6.97 x 19.88 in)
Includes: Fabric-covered decorative box