Incense Burner, Satsuma ware, Japan

Today, it can be divided into two distinct categories: the original plain dark clay early Satsuma (古薩摩, Ko-Satsuma) made in Satsuma from around 1600, and the elaborately decorated export Satsuma (京薩摩, Kyō-Satsuma) ivory-bodied pieces which began to be produced in the nineteenth century in various Japanese cities. By adapting their gilded polychromatic enamel overglaze designs to appeal to the tastes of western consumers, manufacturers of the latter made Satsuma ware one of the most recognized and profitable export products of Japan for centuries, and even became one of the key sources of funding for the Meiji period reforms.

An incense burner is a vessel designed to hold and burn incense, which is a substance that emits a fragrant aroma when burned. Incense burners come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, ranging from simple to ornate designs. They are commonly used in religious ceremonies, spiritual practices, aromatherapy, meditation, and for simply creating a pleasant atmosphere in homes or other spaces. The basic design of an incense burner typically includes a base or dish to catch ash and debris, a central area or holder where the incense stick or cone is placed, and often, decorative elements such as carvings, engravings, or embellishments. Some incense burners are designed to hold multiple incense sticks or cones simultaneously.