Tawaraya Sōtatsu "White Elephant" High-relief lacquer incense box, rosewood burl, 70mm, clam-shaped, one-touch closure, superb quality.

[Karin Burl Incense Box × High-relief lacquerware "White Elephant"]

This special edition incense box is made from carefully selected burl wood of the Buddhist temple and features high-relief maki-e (lacquerware decoration) by Yutaro Shimode, a leading maki-e artist from Kyoto.

The allure of quince blossom

Karin wood is a prized hardwood native to Southeast Asia, characterized by its robust, dense texture and deep reddish-brown color. Among its various forms, the "burl" is extremely rare, and its intricately interwoven burl and wave patterns create a natural beauty. The "red and white grain," which shows a contrast between red and pale yellowish-white, and the swirling patterns unique to burls, have been prized as craft materials since ancient times and have been used in tea ceremony utensils and Chinese woodworking. This piece also makes generous use of this one-of-a-kind burl grain in its base.

High-relief lacquerware by lacquer artist Yutaro Shimode

The lid features a raised lacquer painting of a white elephant by Tawaraya Sōtatsu, a master of Japanese painting history. In Buddhism, the white elephant is a symbol of good fortune, and has been particularly associated with the auspicious sign of the Buddha's birth. While drawing inspiration from Sōtatsu's style, Mr. Shimodate uses advanced modern lacquer techniques to depict the elephant with both power and elegance. The three-dimensional lacquer painting changes its appearance depending on the angle of the light, adding a sense of grandeur to the entire incense box.

Value as a craft

The base bears the inscription "Yū" in gold lettering, a testament to the artist's masterful craftsmanship. Combining the rare material of quince burl with the exquisite artistry of traditional maki-e lacquerware, this piece not only serves as a vessel for incense but also exudes presence as a work of art and craftsmanship that adorns a tokonoma (alcove) or display shelf.

A truly unique work of art, born from the interplay of natural materials and advanced human craftsmanship. A masterpiece that can be cherished for years to come, whether for use in tea ceremonies or simply for display.