An elegant tall traditional Japanese chôzu’bachi 手水鉢 (water basin) of cylindrical form. The basin has a tall ovoid shape with a gently moulded ogee rim. It is carved from a single piece of granite, displaying a natural mottled surface with varying shades of grey and white. A chôzu’bachi is a characteristic element of traditional Japanese gardens, used as a water basin for ritual purification. In this context it is also referred to as a tsukubai 蹲, where visitors cleanse their hands and mouth before entering a sacred or contemplative space, such as a tea garden, Buddhist temple, or Shinto shrine. Period: Japan – Shôwa period (1926–1989) Dimensions: Height 45 cm, Diameter 43.5 cm In excellent original condition, with a minor chip to the upper edge. Please refer to the photographs for a clear impression of the condition. The basin will be carefully packed and shipped on a wooden pallet. When shipped, a certificate of authenticity will be included.