Antique Japanese handmade cast iron kettle meant for boiling water, also known as a Kyo (Kyoto style) tetsubin.

Bamboo theme, cast in relief, wraps around rounded body

Unlined interior

Fixed pivoting bail upright swing handle on cast lugs

Lid, with closed flower finial, created from forged copper. Underside signed with chiseled characters reads Ryubundo-zo (Made by Ryubundo).

The legendary Kyoto metalwork foundry Ryubundo was first established in the early 18th century by Shiho Ryubun (1735-1798), and continued operations into the 20th century. While casting production has flourished in the area since the 12th century, the company pioneered tetsubin techniques by employing the wax casting method. 

Ryubundo development reached a boom during the middle Edo period (1603-1868), when tea culture grew across Japan, with this rise continuing into the late Meiji period (1868-1912).

Measures approx. 10” h x 9” w

Oxidation as pictured. Growing patina. Verdigris to lid. (See pics)

Provenance: Please feel free to reach out for further information. I am happy to provide records upon request