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

Japanese Cast-Iron Tetsubin with Dragon Seal, Rope Handle Form, Late Showa Period Tea Ceremony Kettle

Japanese Cast-Iron Tetsubin with Dragon Seal, Rope Handle Form, Late Showa Period Tea Ceremony Kettle

$1,485.00 USD
$1,485.00 USD
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Japanese Cast-Iron Tetsubin with Dragon Seal

This work is a Japanese cast-iron kettle (tetsubin), produced in the late Showa period, featuring a rope-handle form and relief decoration including a dragon motif and seal-like inscription commonly referred to as a “dragon seal” (ryuin). Such kettles were functional tea implements while also serving as expressions of regional casting skill and symbolic ornament.

The body is robustly cast with a rounded profile and fitted with a twisted iron handle. Decorative elements include tassel-like rope reliefs around the shoulder and a sculptural lid finial. Dragon imagery on ironwares is traditionally associated with strength, protection, and water, making it an auspicious motif for a vessel used in tea preparation.

While some examples bear workshop or stylistic seals rather than verifiable artist signatures, the presence of a dragon seal suggests an intentional mark of identity or quality rather than a later addition. Precise attribution remains uncertain and should be treated conservatively.

Surface wear, oxidation, and handling marks are present, consistent with age and use. The interior shows typical signs of iron kettle use. No claims of modern lining are made.

This tetsubin should be approached as a utilitarian tea object with decorative and cultural value, suitable for collection, study, or traditional tea practice rather than as a signed masterwork.

Overall condition is fair with visible wear. The kettle remains structurally sound.

Key Facts

  • Material: Cast iron
  • Decoration: Dragon motif and seal mark
  • Period: Late Showa
  • Condition: Fair; oxidation and surface wear
  • Customs: HS Code 7323.93 | Origin: Japan

Shipping & Logistics

  • EMS or courier shipping feasible

Confidence & Verification Notes

Attribution and dating are based on stylistic assessment and seller description and should be treated as approximate. The dragon seal is interpreted as a decorative or workshop mark rather than a verified artist signature.

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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?

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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.

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

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