JAPAN - 19th - 20th century Tetsubin (kettle) from the Meiji period (1868-1912), in cast iron with a bronze lid. The lid appears to be nestled in a circle of embers, while one side features three sparrows in flight (suzume) and the reverse displays a poem in Japanese characters, surrounded by sinuous lines. The kettle is adorned with a stylized melon-shaped handle, called a mokkô. The knob on the lid is shaped like a small fruit. The interior is signed "Ryûbundô". Ryûbundô, the famous Kyoto metalworking studio founded by Ryubun in the 18th century and taken over by his adopted son Shikata Yasunosuke, is a pillar of expertise in the world of tetsubin, traditional Japanese cast-iron kettles. With a heritage spanning generations, Ryubundo is celebrated for its exceptional craftsmanship and mastery in creating intricate tetsubin designs. Height 26 cm, Width 21 cm, Depth 16.2 cm. Weight 2.6 kg. Includes a wooden tomobako (storage box) inscribed with a later date. Minor wear and slight oxidation on the lid.