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Rare Vintage, Antiques and Art Collector / Curator / Personal Shopper From Japan

Antique Japanese Tetsubin Iron Kettle — Dragon Relief Lid & Body — Tea Ceremony Cast Iron Kettle

Antique Japanese Tetsubin Iron Kettle — Dragon Relief Lid & Body — Tea Ceremony Cast Iron Kettle

$5,485.00 USD
$5,485.00 USD
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Overview & Cultural Context

This Japanese cast iron tetsubin presents a powerful sculptural presence defined by a deeply modeled dragon motif emerging from the vessel’s body. The relief carving is assertive and dimensional, suggesting a maker skilled in balancing mass, texture, and symbolic force rather than surface ornament alone.

Dragon imagery in Japanese metalwork is associated with elemental control, protection, and vitality. In tea culture, such imagery was believed to influence the atmosphere of the tearoom itself.

The iron surface displays a mature patina consistent with age and use, with subtle oxidation visible but structurally stable.

With a substantial weight of approximately 2.13 kg, this tetsubin occupies a threshold between functional tea utensil and sculptural object.

Key Facts

  • Material: Cast iron
  • Motif: Dragon relief
  • Height: approx. 25 cm
  • Weight: approx. 2.13 kg
  • Water Test: No leakage

Attribution is based on stylistic and material analysis consistent with Japanese tetsubin production traditions.

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AUTHENTICITY & GUARANTEE

Evaluated under the Japonista Authentication Framework™:

  • Casting analysis and surface-study comparison

  • Motif verification (crab, lotus-leaf sculptural detailing)

  • Patina and oxidation aging review

  • Mold-mark consistency checks

  • Handle and lid metallurgy inspection

  • Interior firing and mineral pattern confirmation

Guaranteed 100% Authentic. Covered by the Japonista Lifetime Authenticity Warranty™.

Looking to secure this piece today?

At Japonista, we take pride in offering only carefully curated, original, and authentic pieces. Every item we list is examined, researched, and backed by our full authenticity guarantee—so you may buy with complete confidence.

Some of our pieces may allow a little room for negotiation, while others hold firm due to rarity, condition, or collector value. On a case-by-case basis, we do entertain best offers, and we welcome you to submit one if you have a particular figure in mind. We review all offers seriously and personally.

Should you have any questions, require tailored recommendations, or need assistance with budgeting or shipping arrangements, our concierge team is always here to help. Simply message us anytime—we are warm, responsive, and ready to assist.

Before checking out, we kindly encourage you to review our shop policies and house rules, available through the links in our website footer, as they offer clarity regarding shipping, handling, returns, and conditions for vintage and collectible goods.

For clients who wish to reserve a high-value item, Japonista provides layaway plans on a case-by-case basis. This allows you to lock in rare pieces while spacing out payments flexibly and discreetly. Simply reach out to request eligibility and tailored arrangements.

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Contact our Japonista Concierge™ anytime for priority assistance and private offers.

Thank you for choosing Japonista. We are honored to share these extraordinary treasures of Japan with you, from our heart to your doorstep.

Curatorial Footer: Tetsubin occupy the boundary between daily use and ritual culture in Japanese tea practice.

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