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This is a Japanese horse-shaped kogo incense container by Samukawa Seiho of Aoi Kiln, Kishu Ware, Wakayama, Japan.
The wooden storage box is inscribed “Kanoe-Uma Kogo” (庚午 香合), referring to the Horse year in the traditional Japanese zodiac cycle.
The piece also bears the artist / kiln mark and comes with an original informational leaflet for Kishu Ware Aoi Kiln.
Samukawa Seiho is the second-generation potter of Aoi Kiln and continues the Kishu Ware ceramic tradition in Wakayama, Japan.
The horse is one of the twelve animals of the Japanese zodiac and has long been an auspicious motif in Japanese culture. Horses are traditionally associated with strength, vitality, success, forward movement, and good fortune. Their energetic image also makes them a popular seasonal and celebratory motif in Japanese decorative arts.
Traditionally, kogo are small lidded containers used to hold incense during the Japanese tea ceremony.
Because of its sculptural form, this piece can also be appreciated as a decorative trinket box, small ceramic sculpture, or Japanese art object.
With its identified artist and kiln, Kishu Ware provenance, inscribed wooden box, zodiac motif, and original kiln leaflet, this piece is especially suitable for collectors of Japanese pottery, tea ceremony objects, zodiac art, horse motifs, or studio ceramics.
This is a vintage used item. It shows signs of age, use, and long-term storage, including small marks, light scuffs, discoloration, surface wear, and glaze irregularities.
The wooden storage box shows stains, scratches, discoloration, and age-related wear. The original kiln information leaflet shows folds, creases, discoloration, and storage wear.
No major chips or cracks are visible.
Please review all photos carefully for the exact condition, details, and included items.
Made in Japan.
