This white silk fukusa showcases imagery depicting items utilized in Buddhist incense-burning ceremonies, painted and highlighted with embroidery couching. In excellent condition, it measures 19 inches by 20 inches (48 cm x 51 cm). In Buddhist rituals, incense burning symbolizes the devout aspirations of followers. A Buddhist prayer emphasizes the purity associated with incense, likening it to homage offered to Buddhas across time and space.

Beyond its symbolic Buddhist significance, the use of incense in Japan reflects older beliefs predating Buddhism. These beliefs, some indigenous and others possibly from Chinese or Korean origins, influenced the widespread use of incense. Traditionally, burning incense was believed to shield the deceased and their departing souls from malevolent spirits. Additionally, it was used to expel malevolent entities and was even employed in summoning spirits in ancient practices.