Bronze incense burner representing an old man, riding a carp hands joined, in a tumultuous
sea.
The man could also remind the deity of fishermen and prosperity, Ebisu, which is often
represented with a carp. However, it is usually represented with a large hat called kazaori
eboshi.
The carp is a fish symbolizing perseverance, courage and wisdom, as it swims up rivers and
waterfalls against the current. It is said that if it manages to swim up the Yellow River, facing
the many obstacles on its way, and reaches the top of the violent waterfalls, it will turn into a
dragon. Moreover, the shape of the ware refers to the claws of the legendary animal.
Japan – Meiji era (1868-1912)
Height: 7.4 in. (18.8 cm) – width: 5.5 in. (14 cm) – depth: 9.05 in. (23 cm)