Chôzu’bachi 手水鉢 (water basin) - Granite - Japan - Meiji period (1868-1912)

04
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Current bid
€ 2
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Giovanni Bottero
Expert
Selected by Giovanni Bottero

Holds a master’s in Japanese art history with over 10 years’ expertise in Asian art.

Estimate  € 1,300 - € 1,500
NL
€2
FR
€1

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A single solid-granite Meiji-period chôzu’bachi water basin from Japan, 58.8 cm high, 62.5 cm wide and 62.5 cm deep, in excellent original condition.

AI-assisted summary

Description from the seller

A great and heavy traditional Japanese chôzu’bachi 手水鉢 (water basin), carved from a single solid block of granite.

Of cylindrical form slightly tapering down, the basin’s coarse-textured sides enhance its strong, natural presence. The stone exhibits a charming interplay of black, grey and white tones, creating a mottled effect.

Chôzu’bachi, also known as a water reservoir for cleansing, is a traditional feature in Japanese gardens. Beyond its ornamental appeal, it serves a ritual purpose as a vessel for washing hands and rinsing the mouth before entering sacred spaces such as temples, shrines, or tea gardens. When used in such contexts, it is referred to as a tsukubai 蹲. These basins embody the Japanese ideals of purity and mindfulness, symbolising both physical and spiritual preparation.

Approximate dimensions:
H: 58,8 cm D.: 62,5 cm

Dating such stone pieces precisely is difficult, but this example was likely carved during the Meiji period (1868-1912). It has developed a pleasing natural outdoor patina over time and remains in very good original condition. Please refer to the photos for a clear condition reference.

For safe transport, it will be carefully packed and shipped on a wooden pallet.

Seller's Story

Since 1996, Japanese Antique Store has been importing Japanese antiques directly from Japan. We travel several times a year through Japan and visit auctions, shows, dealers, and collectors. Besides our physical store in Amsterdam, we are also active on Catawiki. We specialize in Samoeraipantser (Yoroi) and objects, lacquerware, screens, paintings, Buddhist images, and many more Japanese artifacts!
Translated by Google Translate

A great and heavy traditional Japanese chôzu’bachi 手水鉢 (water basin), carved from a single solid block of granite.

Of cylindrical form slightly tapering down, the basin’s coarse-textured sides enhance its strong, natural presence. The stone exhibits a charming interplay of black, grey and white tones, creating a mottled effect.

Chôzu’bachi, also known as a water reservoir for cleansing, is a traditional feature in Japanese gardens. Beyond its ornamental appeal, it serves a ritual purpose as a vessel for washing hands and rinsing the mouth before entering sacred spaces such as temples, shrines, or tea gardens. When used in such contexts, it is referred to as a tsukubai 蹲. These basins embody the Japanese ideals of purity and mindfulness, symbolising both physical and spiritual preparation.

Approximate dimensions:
H: 58,8 cm D.: 62,5 cm

Dating such stone pieces precisely is difficult, but this example was likely carved during the Meiji period (1868-1912). It has developed a pleasing natural outdoor patina over time and remains in very good original condition. Please refer to the photos for a clear condition reference.

For safe transport, it will be carefully packed and shipped on a wooden pallet.

Seller's Story

Since 1996, Japanese Antique Store has been importing Japanese antiques directly from Japan. We travel several times a year through Japan and visit auctions, shows, dealers, and collectors. Besides our physical store in Amsterdam, we are also active on Catawiki. We specialize in Samoeraipantser (Yoroi) and objects, lacquerware, screens, paintings, Buddhist images, and many more Japanese artifacts!
Translated by Google Translate

Details

Dynastic Style/Period
Meiji period (1868-1912)
Number of objects
1
Country of Origin
Japan
Material
Granite
Height
58.8 cm
Width
62.5 cm
Title of artwork
Chôzu’bachi 手水鉢 (water basin)
Depth
62.5 cm
Condition
Excellent condition
Authenticity
Original/official
The NetherlandsVerified
3683
Objects sold
100%
protop

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