Late Meiji Period Carved Wood Hibachi

Description

This piece, circa 1900-1910, is carved from Kiri wood, a local wood in Japan. The nature and quality of the … more This piece, circa 1900-1910, is carved from Kiri wood, a local wood in Japan. The nature and quality of the wood has been left as it grows without further embellishments. The body's decorative detail is the grain and growth pattern of the wood finished in a deep rich color. The interior of this important household object is set with a metal liner and iron stand. The bottom retains a maker's braised stamp or brand.

The Hibachi in traditional Japan is called Shichirin or a Fire Bowl and is used as a heating device with charcoal as a fuel source. This could be used as heat or as a cooking device and can be round, square and rectangular. Made from iron, bronze, porcelain or pottery and wood with liners sometimes very decorated within lays and lacquered embellishments. Today they are often used as decorative interior decoration or as containers for plants. less