Provenance
Akahoshi Family—Masuda Don’ō
Dimensions
Height: 4.3 cm
Mouth Diameter: 4.2–4.4 cm
Body Diameter: 5.8–6.2 cm
Base Diameter: 4.7–4.8 cm
Weight: 120 g
Though called a Kikyo (bellflower), it is unclear exactly which flower this incense container represents. Five well-formed petals outline the lid, while the body is a regular pentagon with a foot.
Tea masters likely admired and appreciated this shape as a bellflower.
The blue celadon glaze at the base reveals a hint of the clay beneath, harmonizing with the celadon blue.
It ranks as a Komusubi in the hierarchy of tea bowls. Few examples survive; the author has seen no more than three of this type.
This piece comes from the Akaboshi family collection. When it was offered for sale by the family, Masuda Don’o missed acquiring it and became intensely obsessed. When it reappeared on the market, he seized the opportunity immediately, acquiring it and smiling with satisfaction. It is said to be a truly exceptional piece.
In the past, incense boxes of this type were most favored by tea masters and were highly valued. It is also said that Komei struggled to create imitations of them.
Celadon Dog and Hawk
In ancient China, the phrase “hawk and dog” praised falconry and became a subject for paintings. Reference piece.
