瓦に雀香炉 備前焼|Censer in the Form of Sparrow on a Roof Tile
Unknown Artist
1650
Medium
Lightly glazed stoneware (Bizen ware)
Dimensions
H. 5 1/2 in. (14 cm)
Classification
Ceramics
Culture & Period
Japan · Edo period (1615–1868)
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Charles Stewart Smith, 1893
Accession Number
93.3.163a, b
Tags
Art Historical Context
This charming censer, titled *Censer in the Form of on a Roof Tile* (瓦に雀香炉 備前焼), captures a whimsical moment from Japan's Edo period (1615–1868). Crafted around 1650 by an unknown artist, it depicts a sparrow perched jauntily atop a traditional roof tile, ready to release fragrant incense smoke through subtle perforations. Standing just 5½ inches (14 cm) tall, lightly glazed Bizen ware stoneware exemplifies the rustic elegance of one of Japan's Six Ancient Kilns, originating from Okayama Prefecture. Bizen ware is renowned for its durable, high-fired clay that develops natural, earthy patinas ...