Japanese Wooden Usu Rice Mortar as Interior Object, c. 1920–1940

An impressive Japanese mochi-tsuki usu, a heavy wooden rice mortar traditionally used for pounding mochi.

Dimensions: height 49 cm, diameter 49 cm. Weight: 45 kg.

This exceptionally heavy object is made from solid wood and has a powerful cylindrical form with a deeply hollowed interior.

The broad, rounded rim shows old drying cracks, dark colour variations and visible iron repairs, giving the piece a beautifully timeworn and authentic character. The wood grain runs beautifully along the exterior, with warm brown tones, deep lines and traces of many years of intensive use.

The inside is rough and naturally weathered, with a deep bowl shape that immediately refers to its original function.

Today, this usu works beautifully as a decorative interior object. It can be used as an original fruit or nut bowl, as a stylish holder for branches or flowers, or as a strong base for a green plant. Through the combination of solid wood, old repairs and natural patina, the piece immediately brings warmth, texture and a calm Japanese accent to a contemporary, minimalist or wabi-sabi interior.

In beautiful antique condition, with drying cracks, old repairs, metal traces, wear, colour variations and patina consistent with age, material and original function. Sturdy, heavy and full of character.

Shipping & pickup: pickup in Antwerp possible; worldwide shipping on request.

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