Premium Meditation Incense, Japanese Woodblock Prints

It begins under the flower of peace, before the fall of the plum blossoms, before monks burning incense in Japanese temples, before the rising scents from scented kimono sleeves mixed with the fragrant incense of natural pine, cedar, lavender, and the flowers of the sun.

Original Japanese woodblock print showing an incense burner and a performance program. 

Artist unknown. Shijo School Surimono. 

Printed June 1894.  20" x 7.2"

In the year 538 c.e. Buddhism was first introduced into Japan. Along with it across the ocean came statues of Buddhas, ancient Sutras, as well as incense. From that moment on, incense has been an inseparable part of Japanese history. Incense holds an invaluable role in Buddhist ceremonies and rites as well as in those of the Shinto shrines. Purifying the surroundings, it is reputed to be a method of bringing forth the Buddhist Alamkaraka (Realm of Adornment). It's use spread throughout the country for its purifying as well as medicinal properties.

The creation of incense is an extraordinarily delicate process. In the time-honored traditions of Jinkoya Sakubei, Baieido has dedicated itself to making incense for over 300 years. The method and recipes have been handed down from generation to generation in an unbroken secret oral tradition.
Still Life is pleased to introduce Baieido Premium Meditation Incense.



Kai Un Koh (good fortune)
This a very intense traditional incense with strong elements of aloewood, borneol camphor, cassia, clove, and sandalwood. The sticks are a unique thick square design. 
A great combination of woods and spices!