Incense Burner (Kōro) in the Shape of a Courtier’s Hat with Scrolling Peonies

Japan

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 227

Over a relief pattern of peonies and scrolling vines, the surface of this incense burner is covered with a thick layer or two of glaze, as was characteristic of Nabeshima-type celadon vessels. The object’s complex form is based on the type of hat worn by courtiers during the Heian period (794–1185). These black-lacquered kanmuri had a shallow cap, a tall receptacle for the wearer’s topknot, two crossbars to provide stability, and a long, flat tail at the back. The unique shape of this refined celadon object recalls the representation of aristocrats in Japanese literary classics, such as The Tale of Genji.

Incense Burner (Kōro) in the Shape of a Courtier’s Hat with Scrolling Peonies, Porcelain with celadon glaze (Hizen ware, Nabeshima type), Japan

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Incense Burner (Kōro) in the Shape of a Courtier’s Hat with Scrolling Peonies, Porcelain with celadon glaze (Hizen ware, Nabeshima type), Japan
Incense Burner (Kōro) in the Shape of a Courtier’s Hat with Scrolling Peonies, Porcelain with celadon glaze (Hizen ware, Nabeshima type), Japan
Incense Burner (Kōro) in the Shape of a Courtier’s Hat with Scrolling Peonies, Porcelain with celadon glaze (Hizen ware, Nabeshima type), Japan
Incense Burner (Kōro) in the Shape of a Courtier’s Hat with Scrolling Peonies, Porcelain with celadon glaze (Hizen ware, Nabeshima type), Japan
Incense Burner (Kōro) in the Shape of a Courtier’s Hat with Scrolling Peonies, Porcelain with celadon glaze (Hizen ware, Nabeshima type), Japan

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