About the Works Artist: Kihei Kadowaki 門脇喜平 (b.1918) Title of work: Kakukakusai-koushi Bronze Shakutate — Wabi-Sabi Cast in Metal This is a finely cast karakane shakutate (bronze ladle stand) crafted by Kihei Kadowaki, based on a design attributed to Kakukakusai (覚々斎), a renowned tea master of the Urasenke school. The piece embodies the refined wabi-sabi aesthetic, with a tall, elegant silhouette and raised decorative patterns reminiscent of ancient Chinese bronze vessels. Made from karakane (a traditional Japanese term for high-quality bronze), the shakutate features crisp incised motifs running vertically along the body, and a rich, dark patina developed over time. It is not only a functional utensil holder used in tea ceremonies, but also a display-worthy object reflecting refined Japanese metalwork traditions. This piece comes with its original signed wooden box (tomobako), which bears the artist's inscription and seal, verifying authenticity and provenance. A highly collectible item for tea practitioners and connoisseurs of Japanese metal arts. About Kakukakusai-koushi (覚々斎好写) A Kakukakusai-koushi refers to tea utensils created in homage to Kakukakusai, the highly respected sixth iemoto (grand master) of Omotesenke. These pieces reflect the distinctive aesthetics and preferences of Kakukakusai, embodying his vision for the ideal tea ceremony tool. Items made in this style often show careful attention to classical design and are appreciated for their refined taste and connection to Japanese tea culture. Collectors and tea enthusiasts value such works for their blend of historical lineage and artisanal craftsmanship. size Width: 7.5 cm Height: 18.5 cm Weight: 674 g About the Artist Kihei Kadowaki (門脇喜平) is a renowned Japanese kettle craftsman (kamashi) from Yamagata Prefecture, born in 1918 in Yamagata City. He trained under Shojiki Kikuchi and Tatsushi Nagano, the latter being a Living National Treasure, and earned recognition as a traditional craftsman. Kadowaki was first selected for the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition in 1966 and was featured a total of twelve times, earning certification as a traditional craftsman. His kettles, often reflecting classical forms and excellent usability, are cherished for their refined workmanship and authentic atmosphere. Today, Kadowaki’s mastery and attention to detail continue to inspire, with his legacy carried forward by a second-generation successor. The author's awards: ・Selected twelve times for the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition.​ ・Selected thirteen times for the Japan Traditional Crafts New Works Exhibition.​ ・Selected fourteen times for the Japan Metalwork New Works Exhibition.​ ・Selected six times for the Musashino Traditional Crafts Exhibition.​ ・Winner of the Encouragement Award at the Musashino Traditional Crafts Exhibition.​ ・Recipient of the Yamagata Chamber of Commerce and Industry Award.​ ・Awarded the Ministry of International Trade and Industry Director’s Award.​ ・Honored with the Yamagata City Traditional Craft Technology Merit Award.​ Kadowaki’s reputation for merging tradition with superb usability has earned him both national recognition and the continued respect of tea ceremony connoisseurs. Appearance Please see photos for details. Shipping Information Items are shipped from Japan via DHL or Japan Post. A tracking number will be provided once the shipment has been dispatched. Please note that we are unable to under-declare the value of an item or mark it as a gift for shipping purposes. Obligations of the importer Import duties, taxes and fees are not included in the bid price. These charges are the responsibility of the buyer. Please check with your country's customs office to determine what these additional costs will be before bidding or purchasing. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.