Kutani Ware Snow Sparrow Incense Burner by Nakamura Toshito

The Story & Design: A Poem in Porcelain

This Snow Sparrow Incense Burner (Yukisuzume Koro) is an iconic work by the acclaimed Kutani Ware master, Nakamura Toshito. Shaped like a sheltered sparrow in the snow, this piece showcases the highly sophisticated technique of Iroe Saimitsu Ezuke (detailed polychrome painting).

• Unrivaled Brushwork: Master Toshito is often called one of the foremost artisans of the Heisei era. His works demonstrate breathtaking minuteness, perfectly embodying the belief that "God is in the details."

• Symbolic Beauty: The "Snow Sparrow" motif symbolizes life and resilience found in the quiet harshness of winter, offering a serene yet vibrant atmosphere to your space.

• Collector's Quality: The unique, textured glaze mimics a snowy flurry, beautifully contrasting the lifelike painting of the bird, securing its status as a high-value collectible.

The Artisan: Nakamura Toshito

Nakamura Toshito is recognized as a leading figure in the field of Kutani Ware's detailed polychrome painting. He seamlessly blends Kutani tradition with exquisite observation of nature. His distinguished career includes:

• Certified as a Traditional Craftsman by the Minister of International Trade and Industry.

• Multiple times selected and awarded at the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition (e.g., in 1997, 1998, and 2003) and the Traditional Kutani Ware Crafts Exhibition (e.g., winning the Excellence Award in 1994 and Encouragement Award in 1995).

• Served as an instructor at the Ishikawa Prefectural Kutani Ware Technical Training Institute.

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