Tanuki Koro, Japanese Granite Incense Burner

Burning incense is a common phenomenon in Japan. It is seen as something spiritual and an expression of respect. Often a incense burner, Kōro (香炉) in Japanese, is used for this purpose. These incense burners are filled with sand or ash, after which the incense pieces can be inserted into them.

This massive incense burner has the shape of a Tanuki, or a Japanese raccoon dog. According to Japanese mythology, these animals are capable of changing their appearance. This incense burner is based on this, a Tanuki transformed into an incense burner.