#incenseboxes

Nancy found a collection of these at the market during her recent visit to Kyoto. Kougou (or kogo) are small, decorative vessels used to burn incense during a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, at a temple, or in the home. They're unique, made of porcelain or ceramic, and split so that the top and bottom fit together precisely. Open one up to find a little scooped out niche where special incense could be placed.