A great solid keyaki 欅 (Japanese zelkova) Ebisu-shaped hearth hook 自在鉤 (jizai-kagi), traditionally suspended above an irori hearth. The distinctive curved form is commonly associated with the hat of Ebisu 恵比須, the Japanese deity of fishermen, prosperity and good fortune, and one of the Seven Gods of Fortune 七福神 (Shichifukujin). Such hooks formed part of the traditional hearth arrangement, suspended from a beam above the sunken hearth and used together with an adjustable hook to support a kettle or cooking vessel at the required height. Carved from a substantial block of keyaki wood and finished in a warm brown tone, displaying a strong natural grain and an attractive aged patina. The upper section retains an iron suspension ring, together with traces of an earlier attachment. One side shows a later restoration with a fitted piece of new wood. Period: Japan – Meiji period (1868–1912). Dimensions: Height 55 cm, Width 34 cm, Depth 11.5–27.5 cm. In very good antique condition with traces of wear consistent with age and former use. Please refer to the photographs for a clear impression of the condition.