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

Meiji Period Mixed‑Metal Tea Kettle with Gold & Silver Bird Relief — Japanese Kōgei Masterwork

Meiji Period Mixed‑Metal Tea Kettle with Gold & Silver Bird Relief — Japanese Kōgei Masterwork

$12,485.00 USD
$12,485.00 USD
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Meiji Period Mixed‑Metal Tea Kettle with Gold & Silver Bird Relief

This refined Meiji‑period metal tea kettle represents the apex of Japanese decorative metalwork (kōgei), transforming a functional vessel into a sculptural expression of nature and symbolism.

Crafted using advanced mixed‑metal techniques, the patinated body is adorned with gold and silver relief depicting birds among flowering branches—motifs associated with renewal, harmony, and spiritual elevation.

Compact yet visually rich, this kettle reflects both technical mastery and philosophical depth, making it a compelling addition to serious collections of Japanese tea ware or Meiji decorative arts.

  • Period: Meiji (late 19th–early 20th century)
  • Material: Patinated metal with gold & silver relief
  • Motif: Birds and flowering branches
  • Size: Approx. 14.5 × 10.8 × 13.5 cm

Surface wear and patina are consistent with authentic age and contribute to the object’s historical presence.

Condition:

Visible surface wear, patina, and age‑related marks consistent with period metalwork.
No major structural damage observed. Please review images carefully.

WHY THIS PIECE MATTERS

• Demonstrates high‑level Meiji mixed‑metal craftsmanship  
• Collectible example of functional art from Japan’s kōgei tradition  
• Strong symbolic design rooted in nature and seasonal philosophy  
• Ideal for advanced tea‑ware collections or Japanese art displays  
• Increasingly scarce outside institutional collections  

COLLECTOR’S RESONANCE

This piece speaks to collectors who value quiet mastery over spectacle—those who recognize refinement in restraint, and history in surface patina. It belongs with serious tea objects, Meiji export art, or curated displays exploring Japan’s transformation into a modern artistic power.

CONFIDENCE & VERIFICATION NOTES

Attributions are based on stylistic analysis, construction methods, and seller‑provided information. Exact workshop or artist identification is not signed and cannot be conclusively confirmed. Dating is approximate within the Meiji period.

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AUTHENTICITY & GUARANTEE

Evaluated under the Japonista Authentication Framework™:

  • Casting analysis and surface-study comparison

  • Motif verification

  • 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.

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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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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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