Vintage Japanese Ryubundo "龍文堂" Tetsubin Iron Kettle - 1930s Showa Era (25D-178-3)

Vintage Japanese Kettle, Iron, Taisho Era (SKU 25D-178-3)

Textured tetsubin with fan-cartouche decoration and character inscription, in the spirit of classic Ryubundo 龍文堂 work.

This richly patinated vintage tetsubin (iron kettle) features a rounded body with a fine, stippled surface and raised fan-shaped cartouches encircling the shoulder. Within these panels, delicate motifs of bamboo and plum, together with flowing kanji inscription, evoke the literati taste that defined many Taisho Era and early Showa tea wares. The upright fixed handle and compact spout give the piece a robust, purposeful silhouette ideal for the Japanese tea ceremony or as a display focal point.

The fitted iron lid is crowned with an openwork knob reminiscent of late Ryubundo 龍文堂 designs, and the underside bears a cast signature. Time has given the exterior a warm russet tone, with honest oxidation that enhances the wabi-sabi character without compromising structural integrity. Whether used as a functional kettle with proper care or appreciated purely as an object from the Taisho Era tradition of tetsubin making, it offers a quietly authoritative presence in any collection.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: Taisho Era to early Showa (20th century)
• Material: Cast iron with iron lid
• Use: Traditional tetsubin for heating water for tea or as a decorative display piece
• Features: Textured cast-iron body; raised fan-shaped cartouches with bamboo and plum motifs; kanji inscription; signed lid underside; openwork finial; warm aged patina in classic Ryubundo 龍文堂 style
• Dimensions: 6 1/4" Diameter x 8 1/2"H
• Condition: Very good vintage condition with age-appropriate surface oxidation and wear; interior with expected darkening from use.

A characterful Taisho Era–style tetsubin that brings authentic Japanese tea culture and sculptural presence to your space.

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.