What is a meiji period censer used for?

These vessels were created to burn aromatic incense in domestic interiors, temples, and formal reception rooms. The pierced lids allowed fragrant smoke to permeate the space while containing the embers safely within the ceramic or metal body.

How do I identify a Meiji period piece?

Meiji period items date from the reign of the Meiji Emperor, spanning the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Look for distinctive manufacturing traits such as Satsuma crackle glazes, rich bronze patination, and traditional Japanese motifs like dragons and lions.

Are these censers made of bronze or ceramic?

Surviving examples appear in both metal and ceramic mediums, reflecting the diverse output of Japanese workshops at the time. Bronze versions often feature cloisonné enamel or silver highlights, while ceramic versions utilise porcelain and earthenware from kilns like Kutani and Satsuma.

What does Koro mean in these listings?

Koro is the Japanese term for an incense burner, typically consisting of a bowl, a fitted base or feet, and a pierced lid. These vessels vary from small desk accessories to large decorative garniture pieces.

Home > Meiji Period Censer > Page 2

Meiji Period Censer

22 items · page 2 of 2

← Page 2 of 2 →

These meiji period censer examples are striking vessels for burning incense, crafted with the intricate detail characteristic of Japanese metalwork and ceramics.