Description
Terracotta Resin Incense & Charcoal Burner
A simple pottery burner made near Kathmandu, Nepal, designed specifically for burning charcoal and loose resin incense.
Its unglazed terracotta finish keeps the design practical and understated, making it easy to use within an altar, ritual space or simply wherever you prefer to burn traditional incense. The raised bowl holds the charcoal at the top, while the openings in the base and bowl allow air to circulate around it as it burns.
Burning Resin Incense
Resin incense differs from sticks or cones because it does not usually burn effectively on its own. Instead, small pieces of resin are traditionally placed onto a lit charcoal disc, where the heat gradually releases their fragrance and smoke.
To use the burner, place a suitable incense charcoal disc in the upper bowl and light it according to the charcoal manufacturer’s instructions. Allow the charcoal to heat until the surface begins to turn grey or ashy before adding a small amount of resin incense on top.
Different resins can be burned individually or combined according to your own practice. Frankincense, myrrh, copal, benzoin and other loose incense blends can all be used in this traditional way. As the resin warms, it will melt or smoulder across the charcoal and release aromatic smoke. Add only a small amount at a time; more resin can always be added once the first has finished burning.
Why Use a Charcoal Burner?
Charcoal burning allows you to work with loose resins, herbs and prepared incense blends that cannot be used in an ordinary stick or cone holder.
It is commonly used for:
– Resin incense
– Loose ritual incense blends
– Frankincense and myrrh
– Altar and devotional incense
– Cleansing and preparation of ritual spaces
– Prayer, meditation and personal spiritual practice
The simple pottery construction also makes this an accessible introduction to traditional resin incense burning without unnecessary decoration.
Using Your Burner Safely
Charcoal burns at a very high temperature, so both the charcoal and burner can become extremely hot during use.
Always place the burner on a stable, heat-resistant surface, well away from fabrics, paper and other flammable items. You may also choose to place a small layer of clean sand or ash in the upper bowl to provide an additional barrier between the hot charcoal and the pottery.
Use metal tongs when handling charcoal and never touch, move or empty the burner until everything has cooled completely.
Ensure the burner is used in a well-ventilated area, as charcoal and resin both produce smoke while burning.
Never leave burning charcoal or incense unattended.
Product Details
– Terracotta pottery incense burner
– Designed for charcoal and loose resin incense
– Air holes in the bowl and base for ventilation
– Made near Kathmandu, Nepal
– Approx. 7 cm high
– Approx. 7.5 cm diameter
– Simple, unglazed finish
For intended incense use only. Suitable for resin incense and charcoal. Not suitable for food use.
As this is a handmade pottery item, small variations in colour, finish and shape may occur.
