Tetsubin de hierro fundido de Ryukodo, con banda de hombro en relieve de dragón, tapa en tono de cobre púrpura y boquilla plateada

Attributed to Ryukodo, this cast-iron tetsubin wears a dragon around its shoulder, an apt guardian for a vessel devoted to water. Three finishes meet in one compact form, dark iron, a lid in purple-copper tone and a silvered spout, so the kettle reads as considered metalwork as much as teaware.

The Piece

This compact, weighty cast-iron tetsubin is defined by a raised dragon relief band running around the shoulder. The dragon, a water-maker emblem, suits a vessel whose purpose is the transformation of water into steam, warmth and ritual rhythm.

The lid presents as a contrasting purple-copper tone metal with a finial, and the spout carries a silvered or overlaid finish, a term that can indicate plating, wash, overlay or a brightened finish. The arched handle carries inlay-like decorative accents. Together they give the kettle a deliberate mixed-material character.

For collectors who prioritize iconography and mixed-material presence in tea objects, the dragon relief lends a sculptural silhouette, while the contrasting lid and spout finish move the kettle toward display-grade character within a tetsubin grouping.

Details

• Maker: Attributed to Ryukodo
• Era: Undated; a vintage or antique tea object
• Origin: Japan
• Material: Cast-iron body; purple-copper tone metal lid with finial (alloy unidentified); silvered/overlaid spout finish (attributed)
• Decoration: Raised dragon relief around the shoulder
• Handle: Arched, with inlay-like decorative accents (attributed)
• Measurements: Approx. 18 × 16 × 20 cm (estimated)
• Weight: Approx. 1.6 kg (estimated)

Condition

• General wear consistent with age and handling.
• Scratches and surface soiling are present.
• Interior oxidation and rust are present; functional status untested.

Authenticity & Care

Attributed to Ryukodo; any signature or mark rewards in-hand examination. The silvered spout and inlay-like handle details are attributed by visual examination; in-hand examination is recommended. Every piece is examined and documented in Japan before dispatch and is offered with the Japonista authenticity guarantee.

Delivery from Japan

Packed by hand in Japan and shipped insured and tracked by EMS or an equivalent express service. Import duties and taxes, where applicable, are payable on arrival. Returns follow our published policy.

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