Vintage Japanese Cast Iron Usubata Vase

This is a Mid-CenturyJapanese Usubata (Ikebana flower vase). This vase is used in a Tokonoma (alcove in a traditional Japanese home) to display flowers. It is made of a heavy cast iron in the design of a cart with a cast woven basket moved by two small children with a removable top filled with water for flowers. It has six point footing. The large top part easily separates from the lower vase. Typically the top is taken to a place where flowers are arranged and then taken to the tokonoma where the base awaits. A beautiful way to display any kind of flower arrangement a great stand alone piece of artwork, or place a candle inside! These sell for $225-$400 elsewhere! But as usual, not in my store! Approx: 11"L x 9"H x 6"W Heavy- 5lbs?

Condition

Used (normal wear)