Pigeon-shaped Incense Burner

This intricate work functions as an incense burner, with an opening at the neck. With its head slightly tilted, the pigeon has a charming expression. Its body is rounded, while the legs and tail are depicted with crisp geometric forms. Despite its compact size, the work is richly detailed, with a decorative pattern on the chest and plumage that applies a modern sensibility to ancient Chinese motifs. Katori Hotsuma has produced several animal-shaped incense burners, including Owl-shaped Incense Burner (collection of the Chiba Prefectual Museum of Art), inspired by the ancient Chinese Owl-shaped Wine Vessel, Zun (collection of the Sen-oku Hakukokan Museum). This work exemplifies his neoclassical approach, in which he explores traditional Chinese and Japanese forms and motifs while incorporating a contemporary flair. (M.N.)