Posted 4 years ago
kwqd
(1184 items)
This kyusu is 4.5" in diameter x 2.75" high minus spout and handle and is urushi lined. The original aluminum infuser survives. It weighs 1 lb 5.3 ounces and has a maker's mark. It has a casting error inside the pot which was not cleaned up, the first time I have seen this on a Japanese kyusu. Probably 1970s-1980s but unused, likely a souvenir of a visit to Japan that was used as a paperweight or gewgaw. I have not identified the maker.
I don't like this style of kyusu much because the bell shape of the body takes up a lot of space on a shelf, but I wanted an example of one and this one is fairly small. I call this one a "mountain farm" design kyusu. I have seen this design a few times before, and suspect it is iconic. It is very hard to photograph because of the deep detail that goes all the way around the pot in a panoramic scene, coupled with a mix of shiny and matte surfaces. I may redo the images later.
I have slowed down a lot in my Japanese metal ware purchases due to some impending home repair costs but spotted this one for sale in my home town about three miles from my house for $16 and no shipping costs. The seller actually found it at a now defunct thrift shop which was in long walking distance from my house. I sometimes walked to it, but it was a bit far to carry anything bulky or heavy back home. Too good to pass up.
This is one of several items in my collection made by this unidentified foundry. I am starting to link the posts for these items together in case anyone wants to wend their way through them:
https://www.collectorsweekly.com/stories/291328-iwachu-cast-iron-mare-and-foal-plaqu
Thanks for taking a look at my panoramic kyusu fortapache, jscott0363, Watchsearcher, Jenni, PhilDMorris, Kevin and aura!
Thanks for your comments, Eileen! It is a small sculpture, for sure. It would have been cooler if I had found it in the thrift shop!
Thanks dav2no1, Eileen, Thomas and fortapache!
Thanks SEAN68!