Cherry blossoms in gold, porcelain in fine detail

Product Description

Gold-toned cherry blossoms spread across a finely dotted white ground, bringing warmth and delicate texture to this Kutani porcelain incense burner. A red-and-gold border outlines the square body, while a softly domed, gold-toned lid adds a gentle curve above it.

The white-dot decoration, known as shirochibu, creates a quietly intricate surface. Seen close up, the small raised dots form a textured backdrop for the larger blossoms, balancing fine detail with the flowing floral design.

Made in Japan, the burner measures approximately 5.5 cm per side and 9.6 cm high (2.2 × 3.8 in). Its small scale lends itself to a personal incense ritual, with enough decorative presence to enjoy on a shelf, console, or in a display cabinet between uses.

Presented in a wooden box, it makes a thoughtful gift for someone drawn to incense, Japanese ceramics, or the enduring appeal of cherry blossoms.

Product Information
  • Item: Kutani ware incense burner
  • Design: White-dot cherry blossom (白粒桜)
  • Decoration: Shirochibu raised white dots with gold-toned floral detail
  • Material: Porcelain
  • Exterior dimensions: Approx. 5.5 cm per side × 9.6 cm high (2.2 × 3.8 in)
  • Origin: Made in Japan
  • Contents: 1 incense burner
  • Presentation: Wooden box
Care instructions

Allow the burner to cool completely before handling or cleaning. For routine care, remove loose ash carefully and dust the exterior with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid abrasive pads, harsh cleaners and soaking. Do not place in a dishwasher or microwave.

When burning incense, place the burner on a stable, heat-resistant surface with clear space around it. Keep it away from flammable materials, children and pets, and never leave burning incense unattended. Follow the instructions supplied with your incense.

Artisan & Craft
Artisan & Craft

Kutani ware is a ceramic tradition associated with Ishikawa Prefecture, known for richly decorated surfaces. This piece features shirochibu: fine raised white dots arranged across the porcelain ground. The even rhythm of the dots creates a delicate texture, allowing the larger cherry blossoms and warm metallic accents to stand out. The effect rewards a closer look, whether the burner is in use or on display.

Note

Pattern placement, colour shading, and dimensions may vary slightly between pieces. The item you receive may differ subtly from the photographs.

Questions About This Piece

What is shirochibu decoration?
Shirochibu is Kutani decoration formed from fine raised white dots. Their closely spaced arrangement creates a delicately textured ground that sets off the larger cherry blossom motifs.
How large is the burner?
Its exterior measures approximately 5.5 cm per side × 9.6 cm high (2.2 × 3.8 in). The interior space for incense is smaller. Its compact square form is easy to appreciate on a shelf or console between uses.
Does it come in a presentation box?
Yes. One porcelain incense burner is presented in a wooden box, making it a considered gift for an incense enthusiast or someone who appreciates Japanese ceramics.
How should I care for it?
Let the burner cool completely, then carefully remove loose ash and dust the exterior with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid soaking, abrasive cleaners, the dishwasher, and microwave. When burning incense, use a stable, heat-resistant surface and follow the instructions supplied with your incense.
Kutani ware from Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan

Kutani ware · Ishikawa, Japan

Kutani: Japan’s art of brilliant color

Kutani ware emerged in Ishikawa in the 17th century and became celebrated for bold overglaze painting and an unmistakably rich use of color. Its decorative language ranges from expressive nature motifs to highly detailed compositions, giving Kutani porcelain a vivid character unlike almost any other Japanese ceramic tradition.

17th-century roots born in Ishikawa
Kutani Gosai five signature colors
Overglaze painting bold, layered, expressive
Ishikawa · Hokuriku · Japan

Discover Kutani

Learn more about Kutani ware

What is Kutani ware?

Kutani ware is a tradition of Japanese porcelain associated with Ishikawa Prefecture. It first developed in the 17th century and is especially known for richly colored overglaze decoration, bold compositions and a wide range of styles that evolved over several centuries.

What are the five colors of Kutani ware?

The traditional Kutani palette is often referred to as Kutani Gosai, or the five Kutani colors: red, yellow, green, purple and dark blue. These vivid overglaze enamels are used in different combinations, from dense decorative painting to more restrained contemporary work.

Where is Kutani ware made?

Kutani ware is associated with Ishikawa Prefecture in Japan’s Hokuriku region, particularly the areas around Kaga, Komatsu and Kanazawa. The original Kutani production began near present-day Kaga in the mid-1600s.

Why does Kutani ware look so different from other Japanese porcelain?

Kutani is distinguished by its emphasis on decoration after the porcelain body has been fired. Layers of colored enamel are applied over the glaze, allowing artists to create saturated color, strong outlines and highly expressive imagery. This gives Kutani ware a more painterly and often more dramatic appearance than many other Japanese porcelain traditions.