Ryubundo - Ryubundo - Kettle - unkwon - Cast iron - Ryubundo Kettle Iron

Item Description
This is an authentic antique iron kettle (tetsubin) crafted by the renowned Ryubundo workshop, one of Japan's most prestigious iron kettle manufacturers established in Kyoto during the early 19th century. The kettle bears the Ryubundo mark engraved on the interior of the lid, confirming its authenticity and historical significance.
The kettle features a distinctive rounded body with a textured surface that showcases the natural patina developed over decades of use. The elegant arched handle and the characteristic knob design on the lid suggest this piece was crafted in the Kyoto style, reflecting the sophisticated aesthetics of traditional Japanese metalwork. The spout is gracefully integrated into the body, demonstrating the exceptional craftsmanship of Ryubundo artisans.
Ryubundo was founded in Kyoto and became famous for producing high-quality iron kettles that combined functionality with artistic beauty. Their works were highly sought after by tea ceremony practitioners and collectors alike. This kettle represents an important piece of Japanese cultural heritage and the golden age of iron kettle production in Kyoto.
The natural aging process has created a unique character on this piece, with layers of oxidation that tell the story of its long history. This tetsubin has been intentionally left in its original, uncleaned condition to preserve its authentic historical appearance and patina, making it a genuine artifact from Japan's rich metalworking tradition.
This piece would make an exceptional addition to any collection of Japanese antiques, tea ceremony utensils, or Asian metalwork. It stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Ryubundo's master craftsmen.

Size
Height: 21 cm
Width: 16 cm
Depth: 9 cm

Weight
1525 g / 1.525 kg

Condition
This antique iron kettle shows significant signs of age-appropriate wear with visible rust oxidation and patina throughout. The piece has been intentionally preserved in its original uncleaned state to maintain its historical authenticity and character.

Artist Profile
Ryubundo was one of the most prestigious iron kettle workshops in Kyoto, Japan, established in the early 19th century during the late Edo period. The workshop became renowned for creating exceptional quality tetsubin that perfectly balanced artistic beauty with functional excellence. Ryubundo kettles were particularly favored by tea ceremony masters and became highly collectible both in Japan and internationally. The workshop's pieces are characterized by their refined Kyoto aesthetic, superior casting techniques, and meticulous attention to detail. Today, authentic Ryubundo kettles are considered important cultural artifacts representing the pinnacle of Japanese metalworking tradition.

Catawiki出品項目
Artist: 龍文堂 Ryubundo (19th century)
Title of Artwork: Antique Kyoto-Style Iron Kettle with Ryubundo Mark
Period: 19th-20th century (exact date unknown)
Technique: Cast iron
Origin: Kyoto, Japan
Condition: Fair - shows age-appropriate wear with oxidation and patina
Signature/Mark: Ryubundo mark engraved on interior of lid
Provenance: Japanese private collection
Category: Asian Art / Japanese Metalwork / Tea Ceremony Utensils

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