Japanese Chagama Kettle, Ubakuchi-Marugama Cast Iron, Copper Lid.

In traditional tea rooms, the rounded Ubaguchi-marugama silhouette of the Japanese Chagama Kettle—crafted in cast iron with a copper lid—reveals a rustic texture and refined lid detailing. Made by sixth-generation Tōbei Ōkoku, this signed chagama arrives in its original wooden box and preserves the inward-curving ubaguchi rim favored by Sen no Rikyu and generations of chanoyu practitioners. The body’s deliberate wabi-sabi surface and substantial three kg weight offer stable heat retention suitable for carbon heating devices and ceremony accessory displays, while the copper plum blossom knob adds delicate contrast. Interior rust present; boil tea leaves or charcoal before first use.

Description

This Japanese Chagama Kettle is a tangible example of chanoyu gear that bridges functional hot water vessel use and aesthetic room display. The cast metal container shows a deliberately coarse surface that reads as antique ware or vintage metallic boiler in a wabi sabi decor scheme. The lid is crafted with greater delicacy, the copper knob carved with a plum blossom motif and shaped to sit gracefully within the ubaguchi rim. Its form and proportions reflect classic sensibilities for stable boiling and heat retention, making it suitable as an iron pot for traditional tea ceremony preparation or as a centerpiece in a tea-room setting.

Provenance and maker

The kettle is signed by Tōbei Ōkoku, sixth-generation maker from a family workshop known for producing ceremonial boilers and cast iron kettles. The inclusion of the original wooden box supports provenance and safe storage. References to historical tea masters such as Sen no Rikyu place the Ubaguchi-marugama within a long lineage of favored forms for chanoyu practitioners.

Measurements, materials, and care

The cast iron body and copper lid should be handled with care to preserve patina and prevent further interior corrosion. Because some rust is present inside, follow the maker-recommended initial preparation: boil tea leaves or charcoal in the vessel for an extended period, then rinse and dry thoroughly. Avoid harsh detergents; dry fully after each use to maintain the iron pot and copper lid. For room display, place on a heat-resistant surface and avoid prolonged exposure to direct moisture.

Usage and display ideas

Use this kettle as a ceremony accessory for authentic chanoyu practice, or as a contemplative object in wabi sabi decor and room display. As a hot water vessel it performs well for small tea gatherings; as an antique ware or vintage metallic boiler, it adds character to a study or alcove. Note that this listing does not include a brazier or fuel source; pairing with an appropriate carbon heating device is the buyer’s responsibility.

🌐 ーーー SHOP POLICIES ーーー

🌐 International Buyers: Standard DDU terms. Custom duties/taxes are the buyer's responsibility upon delivery.

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🛡️ RETURNS & CONDITION

• Returns: Accepted within 7 days. Buyer pays round-trip shipping costs and processing fees for buyer's remorse.

• Condition: Our items are authentic antiques/vintage. Naturally, they carry signs of age (scratches/wear). Please examine all photos carefully before purchasing.

FAQ

Q: Is the kettle functional despite interior rust?

A: Yes. The kettle remains a usable hot water vessel; interior rust is noted and the seller recommends boiling tea leaves or charcoal before first use to stabilize the surface.

Q: Does the purchase include the wooden box and maker’s signature?

A: Yes. This piece includes the signed wooden box that accompanies the cast iron container and supports provenance for collectors of chanoyu gear.

Q: Can this chagama be used on modern stoves or electric burners?

A: The kettle is designed for traditional charcoal heating devices and braziers; consult a heating specialist before using on modern electric surfaces. As an iron pot, it is best paired with appropriate carbon heating device setups.

Q: Is the brazier included?

A: No. The brazier is not included with this listing; only the kettle with copper lid and signed wooden box are provided.

Q: How does this piece fit into decor styles?

A: With its wabi-sabi decor aesthetic, the kettle functions both as a ceremony accessory and as an antique or vintage metallic boiler accent for room display, blending practical use and visual presence.