Vintage Japanese Tetsubin with Kiku Relief and Maki-e Lacquer Lid, Early Showa (1927-1945) | SKU: 26M-129-2

Vintage Japanese Tetsubin with Kiku Relief and Maki-e Lacquer Lid, Early Showa (1927-1945) | SKU: 26M-129-2

A rare cast-iron tetsubin with all-over kiku relief and a stunning maki-e lacquer lid -- a handcrafted Japanese tea ceremony piece of exceptional character.

A tetsubin is a traditional Japanese cast-iron kettle used to boil water for the tea ceremony and everyday tea preparation. Crafted from thick, hand-cast iron, this vintage Japanese tetsubin features a rounded, globular body covered in a repeating kiku (chrysanthemum) relief pattern -- a motif long associated with longevity and Imperial dignity in Japan. The swinging iron bail handle is fitted with a decorative grip bar, and the straight, squared spout projects cleanly from the shoulder. What makes this piece especially remarkable is its lid: a separate lacquer lid decorated in maki-e technique with golden autumn botanical motifs -- leaves, blossoms, and trailing grasses rendered in rich amber lacquer against a deep black ground. The pairing of rugged iron and refined lacquerwork speaks to the sophisticated aesthetic sensibility of Early Showa-era Japanese craft.

In a modern home, this tetsubin makes a compelling living room accent or Japandi-style shelf display -- its dark, textured iron body and glowing lacquer lid create an immediate focal point on a mantle, console table, or bookshelf. It also works beautifully as a desktop accent or small planter for a single succulent, bringing the wabi-sabi aesthetic into a home office or entryway. For collectors of Japanese vintage ironwork or tea ceremony objects, this piece is a genuinely rare find -- a thoughtful gift for Japanophiles or anyone who appreciates handcrafted Japanese art with a rich patina of age.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1927-1945 (Early Showa)
• Material: Cast iron body; lacquered lid with maki-e gold botanical decoration; iron bail handle
• Use: Boiling water for the tea ceremony (chado) and daily tea preparation
• Modern Use: Decorative shelf or mantle accent; Japandi-style living room display; small desktop planter or vase
• Features: Globular cast-iron body with all-over kiku (chrysanthemum) relief texture; squared straight spout; swinging iron bail handle with decorative grip bar; separate lacquer lid with maki-e autumn botanical motif in gold on black ground; rich aged patina throughout
• Dimensions: --
• Condition: Excellent

A striking piece of vintage Japanese ironwork -- the handcrafted kiku relief body and maki-e lacquer lid make this tetsubin a collector-quality decorative accent for any modern interior.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All vintage items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.