Object of the Month: February 2026

Koro (incense burner)

Published: 31 January 2026

  • Kyoto, Japan
  • Iron, gold
  • 1841-1899
  • Bequest of George Hodges

Chosen by Shani Collis, Collections Access Officer

Photograph of a Japanese incense burner

This object is decorated using Nunomi Zogan technique, made by inlaying gold or silver onto an iron base.

It has a maker’s mark which translates as ‘Made in Kyoto, Japan by Komai’. The Komai workshop was established in 1841 by Komai Seibei, a sword fittings maker and he used this technique to decorate his crafted weaponry and fittings, which were the mainstay of the business.

Eventually the company began producing more domestic items such as cigarette cases etc. likely due to the 1876 Sword Abolishment Edict which outlawed former Samurai from carrying swords.

The Object of the Month can be seen in person throughout February at Leicester Museum & Art Gallery.

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