Vintage Japanese Shu-nuri Gin-wa Iri Te-oke (Lacquered Hand Bucket), Heisei 1990-2018 | SKU: 26J-0203

Vintage Japanese Shu-nuri Gin-wa Iri Te-oke (Lacquered Hand Bucket), Heisei 1990-2018 | SKU: 26J-0203

A signed studio piece in vermilion urushi lacquer with silver-tone metal hoops -- offered with its original tomobako wooden box.

A teoke (hand bucket) is a traditional Japanese lacquerware vessel historically used to carry fresh water in the preparation areas of the tea ceremony, known as the mizuya. This exceptional example is finished throughout in rich vermilion shu-nuri lacquer -- a technique prized in Japanese craft for its deep, mirror-like gloss and long-standing association with ritual objects. The cylindrical body is banded with polished silver-tone metal hoops at mid-body and base, a finishing detail described on the tomobako lid inscription as "gin-wa" (silver ring). The tall fixed handle is lacquered in the same vermilion, with contrasting black lacquer accents at the grip. The interior is finished entirely in glossy black urushi, a classic pairing that heightens the visual drama of the piece. The two-piece split lid, each half in matching red lacquer, rests neatly inside the handle frame and lifts away cleanly. The accompanying tomobako wooden storage box bears a hand-brushed inscription identifying the piece as a "shu-nuri gin-wa iri te-oke" (vermilion lacquer, silver-ring hand bucket) along with an artist signature and seal, adding significant collectible value to this handcrafted Japanese lacquerware object.

Beyond its ceremonial origins, this teoke makes a bold and beautiful statement in any modern interior. Display it on a sideboard, entryway console, or living room shelf as a sculptural accent in the wabi-sabi aesthetic -- its saturated red against a neutral backdrop is simply arresting. It works equally well as a planter for a small trailing plant or floral arrangement, adding a dramatic pop of traditional Japanese color to bedroom decor or a home office. Presented with its signed tomobako box, it also makes an outstanding gift for collectors, Japanophiles, or anyone who appreciates fine Japanese craft. Whether displayed alone or as part of a chado (tea ceremony) collection, this is a rare studio piece that rewards close inspection.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1990-2018 (Heisei)
• Material: Wood body with shu-nuri (vermilion) urushi lacquer exterior, black urushi lacquer interior, polished silver-tone metal banding hoops, lacquered wood handle and split lid
• Use: Teoke -- hand bucket used in tea ceremony preparation (mizuya) for carrying fresh water
• Modern Use: Living room or entryway decorative accent; planter or vessel for floral arrangements; display piece for a Japanese craft or chado collection
• Features: Cylindrical form with tall fixed lacquered handle; two-piece split semicircular lid in red urushi; glossy black lacquer interior; silver-tone metal hoops at mid-body and base; small raised feet at base; comes with signed tomobako wooden box inscribed with item name, artist signature in brushwork, and artist seal
• Dimensions: 9"Diameter x 10"H
• Condition: Excellent

A rare signed example of handcrafted Japanese lacquerware -- the bold vermilion finish and artist tomobako make this teoke an exceptional collector's piece and a striking accent for 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 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.