Nakagawa Joeki XI Inlaid Bronze Wa-Futaoki Lid Rest, Signed Box

A ring-shaped karakane (bronze) lid rest by Nakagawa Joeki XI, its iron-toned surface circled by an inlaid band of the stylised character for "hitsuji" (sheep).

The Nakagawa family serve as the metalsmiths among the Senke Jisshoku, the ten craft families that make utensils for the Sen tea schools, and have carried the name Joeki for generations. The wa-futaoki, a simple open ring, is one of the classic lid rests used to hold the kettle lid and ladle during a tea gathering. The Kyoto dealer acquired this piece long ago as a trial piece; it has never been used, and which Year of the Sheep it was made for is not known.

Details

• Maker: Nakagawa Joeki XI (十一代 中川浄益)
• Material: karakane (bronze/copper alloy) with iron-coloured finish and inlay
• Size: diameter approx. 5.4 cm × height approx. 4.9 cm
• Box: original signed wooden box (tomobako)
• Condition: unused, long-held dealer stock

Please read before ordering

• One of a kind. We confirm availability with the dealer in Japan within one business day of your order; if it has sold we refund in full immediately.
• Ships from New Jersey in 2–3 weeks. Price includes all import duties. Fully insured, signature required.