Antique Japanese Itomasu 1800’s

This is an antique Japanese mid Meiji Era (c. 1890) wooden wash basin used for washing all varieties of household items. The neck and handle of the basin is carved as the legendary Crane (tsuru) of Happiness loved throughout Japan. Constructed with mortis and tenon joint (see picture 7).

After a century of careful use, along with a warm aged patina, it remains in good condition. It measures 16" in diameter by nearly 23" tall (41 x 58 cm). I have found this antique wooden bucket to be the perfect size for many modern day uses magazine and newspaper holder, powder room waste basket, kindling storage next to the fireplace, and many more.