Takaoka Metalwork Kissho Dragon Incense Burner

Takaoka Metalwork Kissho Dragon Incense Burner

An auspicious (kissho) dragon coils around the body of this substantial incense burner, its powerful form and detailed scales symbolizing strength, protection, and good fortune. The generous proportions and bold relief work make it a commanding presence on a shelf, altar, or tea-ceremony setting.

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 copper form, then apply hand engraving and finishing techniques passed down through generations to bring out the fine detail of the dragon motif.

How to Use

Fill the bowl partway with incense ash, then place a lit incense cone, cored charcoal, or an incense stick into the opening (approx. 5.3 cm in diameter) in 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
Size: 20 x 15 x 19 cm (7.87 x 5.91 x 7.48 in), opening approx. 5.3 cm diameter
Includes: Paulownia wood box