Antique Japanese Cast Iron Tea Kettle (Chagama) – Signed Ryubundo-zo 龍文堂造 – Meiji/Taisho Period – Bronze Lid & Rings Description This is an antique Japanese cast iron tea kettle (chagama / 茶釜), featuring a rich hammered texture on the body and a decorative relief border around the shoulder. Two brass rings are attached to the sides for handling. The bronze lid is signed 龍文堂造 (Ryubundo-zo) on the underside, attributing it to the renowned Kyoto ironwork house Ryubundo, which produced fine cast iron wares from the late Edo period through the early Showa era. Specifications: Height: approx. 14 cm Diameter (body): approx. 15 cm Material: Cast iron (body), bronze (lid and fittings) Condition: The exterior retains a deep black patina with natural age-related wear. The interior shows rust consistent with age and long-term storage — typical for antique iron vessels of this type. This piece is intended for display or collection purposes, not active use. Note: The signature appears on the lid. As is common with Ryubundo pieces, the lid and body may originate from different production periods. Please refer to all photos carefully before bidding.