“A miniature temple of serenity—where ancient rituals and masterful hands converge in a single, breath-stealing form.”
This celadon incense burner is a poetic reimagining of a Goryeo-era masterpiece, originally inspired by National Treasure No. 95 of Korea. Crafted using a remarkable fusion of openwork carving, applied motifs, white inlay, and symbolic sculptural forms, it condenses the finest traditions of Korean ceramics into a singular object of art.
The lid is where the magic begins. Inspired by the Chilbo (七寶) motif—a sacred symbol rooted in Buddhist cosmology—the surface has been carefully carved to remove the background, leaving behind a delicate lattice of openwork lines. Each point of intersection is highlighted with inlaid white slip, not painted but embedded, creating luminous accents that shimmer softly under light.
Beneath the lid, the lotus flower-shaped body rests like a floating bloom. Rather than shaping it as a single unit, each petal was individually formed, applied one by one, and then adorned with relief-carved veins. This slow, deliberate method adds both texture and quiet vitality to the form, reflecting a reverence for life and ritual.
The base is supported by three small sculpted rabbits—silent guardians of the flame. Their eyes are detailed using iron-painting techniques, a finishing touch that lends personality and soul to the piece. It is in these gentle, almost whimsical gestures that the spiritual and playful sides of traditional Korean art meet.
While its original purpose was to hold finely ground incense powders, this burner can also accommodate modern incense sticks with sand, allowing you to create your own moments of calm. Whether used or simply admired, it brings a tranquil atmosphere to personal spaces—perfect for contemplative nooks, curated bookshelves, or serene altar tables.
Imagine it under the soft glow of morning light, casting its lattice-like shadow across a stone surface, or quietly accompanying you during an evening wind-down ritual. It’s not just an incense burner—it is a celebration of tradition, a story carved into clay, and a reminder that beauty, when infused with meaning, needs no explanation.
Due to the handcrafted nature of this work, slight variations in tone, texture, or shape may occur—each piece is uniquely yours.
Dimensions
- Height- 15.5cm (6.1 inch)
- Width- 12cm (4.72 inch)
- Depth- 12cm (4.72 inch)
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