A Japanese Kogo with Feather Design in Togidashi

circa 1900

This minimalist kogo (incense box) depicts two feathers of such fine rendition they look like they might blow away in the breeze. Created using the togidashi technique, this box is a masterful example of the flat, shimmering result that can be achieved through the painstaking application process. Signed Gyokurei, the craftsmanship displayed here is exquisite, with the feathers seeming to emerge from the box’s surface. The light, empty composition highlights the delicacy of the feathers, encouraging the viewer’s eye to examine each finely crafted strand.