Ikkei Kakutani (角谷一圭), Japanese (1904–1999)

A Small Iron Kettle with Silver Lid Finial

Showa Era (1926-1989)

About the work

A finely cast small iron kettle (tetsubin) by Ikkei Kakutani, the celebrated kettle master
and Living National Treasure renowned for his mastery of chanoyu gama (tea
kettles). The vessel exemplifies Kakutani’s ability to blend robust form with refined
details, elevating a functional tea utensil into a work of art.
The kettle features a textured iron body with a scalloped shoulder rim and a gracefully
arched handle. The lid is surmounted by a silver ring-shaped finial, providing a
striking contrast to the dark, rustic iron surface. The spout extends with quiet
elegance, balancing the kettle’s compact yet powerful form. Kakutani’s artist’s seal is
cast to the body, attesting to authenticity.

Dimensions

12.5cm (w) without spout x16 cm (h) with handle

Footnote

Ikkei Kakutani (1904–1999), born in Osaka, was one of Japan’s most
distinguished kama-shi (tea kettle masters). Born Tadashiro Kakutani, he studied the
art of tea kettle making under his father, Minosuke, from 1917. He later expanded his
training under Okuni Tobee and Katori Hotsuma, mastering the broader field of metal
casting. Kakutani first exhibited at the Nitten in 1947, and in 1958 he received the
Prince Takamatsu Award at the Japan Traditional Art Crafts Exhibition, followed by
many other honors. In 1978, he was designated a Living National Treasure for his
work in tea kettles. He belonged to a distinguished lineage of kettle makers, with his
father, his brother Shason, and his son Yūkei all continuing the tradition.