Vintage Japanese Iron Kettle, 1990 - 2018 (Heisei) | SKU: 26M-937

Japanese Tetsubin Iron Kettle | Functional Teaware & Wabi-Sabi Decor Accent, 1990-2018 (Heisei), SKU 26M-937

A sculptural cast iron tetsubin with a faceted body, pierced lid surround, and lotus medallion -- signed by the maker and presented in its original wood storage box.

A tetsubin is a traditional Japanese cast iron kettle used to boil water for the tea ceremony and everyday tea preparation. This example is a particularly refined piece of handcrafted Japanese ironwork, attributed to a named kanamono craftsman whose signature appears on the accompanying tomobako (fitted wood box). The body takes an unusual faceted form -- softly squared at the corners yet rounded through the belly -- and rests on small cast feet. The hinged bail handle arcs cleanly overhead, and a short, angular spout projects horizontally from the body. The lid is a standout detail: a flat cast disc bearing a raised lotus medallion at its center, set within a quatrefoil surround that is pierced to allow steam to escape and to frame the knop beautifully from above. The interior shows a traditional black iron surface consistent with use. The overall finish is a deep iron-brown with the natural patina that develops over decades of careful use -- a hallmark of quality tetsubin and a quality sought by collectors of vintage Japanese teaware.

Beyond its original role in the tea room, this tetsubin makes a striking living room accent or home office display piece for anyone drawn to the wabi-sabi aesthetic or Japandi style interiors. Set on a wooden trivet or a stone slab, it becomes an instant conversation piece on a sideboard, bookshelf, or low tea table. Collectors of Japanese antique ironwork will appreciate the signed tomobako, which adds strong provenance and display value. It also makes a thoughtful and unique gift for Japanophiles, tea ceremony enthusiasts, or anyone who appreciates handcrafted Japanese craft with genuine artistic merit.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1990-2018 (Heisei)
• Material: Cast iron; wood tomobako (storage box)
• Use: Boiling water for tea ceremony (chado) and daily tea preparation
• Modern Use: Decorative living room or home office accent; display piece for Japanese teaware collectors; unique gift for tea ceremony enthusiasts or Japanophiles
• Features: Faceted rounded body with small cast feet; angular horizontal spout; hinged bail handle; pierced quatrefoil lid surround with raised lotus medallion and knop finial; traditional black iron interior; deep iron-brown patina; signed tomobako (fitted wood storage box) included
• Dimensions: 6"W x 7"D x 7"H
• Condition: Excellent

A refined piece of handcrafted Japanese ironwork -- complete with its signed tomobako -- that brings the quiet beauty of the wabi-sabi aesthetic to any modern home.

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 and antique 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.