The censer is in the shape of a scroll with a large green bow tied at the center and gold enameled ends representing the scroll roller. The piece has the classic blue and green overglaze enamels and includes designs of golden maple leaves, a circle with a geometric interior design and even one painting of Daikoku’s hammer. The bottom is unglazed. The interior has an impressed mark that has been translated as “Ninsei” – however; it is most likely an honorific mark. The piece measures 8 ½” long to the end of the knobs – is 2 ½” diameter with the lid off – and is 3 1/8” diameter with the lid on. It is in excellent condition with no restorations, cracks or chip.We date the piece to the late Edo to early Meiji period, circa 1840-1880; quite possibly earlier.

The inspiration for this style of pottery comes from the very famous Kyoto potter, Ninsei, who developed the art of overglaze enameling in 17th century Japan. In 17th century, in Kyoto, then Japan's cultural capital, kilns produced lead-glazed pottery like the pottery of southern China. Among them, potter Nonomura Ninsei invented an overglazed enamel method and improved refined Japanese-style design under temple patronage.

This form of pottery originated in Kyoto. Kyoto was the capital of Japan from 794 to 1869 (except during the Edo period 1603-1869). Traditions and techniques were brought together from all over the Japan. The tea ceremony was established in Kyoto. Kiyomizu pottery was developed with the most refined techniques by many famous potters (Ninsen, Kenzan, Mokubei Aoki, Eiraku Hozen).