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Available for purchase is a highly important and authentic antique Japanese cast iron tetsubin tea kettle from the renowned Seijudo (晴寿堂) workshop. This premium Kyoto-style piece showcases exceptional 19th-century master metalworking craftsmanship, making it an extraordinary investment piece for serious collectors of Japanese antiquities and fine tea-ware.
The iron body prominently bears the crisp, cast maker\'s mark \"晴寿堂造\" (Made by Seijudo) beneath the spout. Seijudo was an elite historical foundry celebrated for its high-end, artisan-made kettles—most famously associated with master craftsman Okani Juro.
Key Features & Craftsmanship:
• Seijudo Studio Signature: Authenticated by the original cast maker\'s cartouche directly on the kettle\'s exterior body wall.
• Inlaid Iron Handle: The heavy overhead handle is adorned with beautifully preserved silver/white metal inlays featuring a detailed oak leaf, an arrowhead motif (ya-no-ne), and a traditional swirling wave design.
• Floral Attachment Tabs: The handle attaches to the main body via two meticulously crafted, blossom-shaped cast iron ear mounts (tsurukubi).
• Premium Lid & Finial: Fitted with a heavy, solid bronze/brass lid that has aged to a wonderful, deep golden patina. The lid is crowned with a striking, light-yellow stone or glass cooling bead finial secured by an ornate rosette cap.
• Authentic Construction: The bottom features a distinct, visible gata-tsume (casting plug hole mark), guaranteeing this kettle was individually cast using old-world sand-mold methods rather than modern factory are sold strictly as-is. This kettle shows an authentic, untouched aged patina with visible surface oxidation and rust build-up on both the exterior and interior, consistent with historical use and age. There are no major cracks or structural damage apparent. It has not been polished, cleaned, or chemically treated in order to preserve its historical value and original character for the buyer. Please review all macro photographs carefully for exact cosmetic condition.
Approximate Measurement: 6.25\" to top of raised handle, 4\" body, total width: 6.5\"
