Large Hook for a Kettle (Jizaigake)

This large wooden hook, called a *jizaigake*, offers a glimpse into the domestic life of a wealthy Japanese farmhouse. Imagine it suspended above a hearth, holding a kettle on a chain, ready to heat water for tea or cooking. Its most striking feature is the slanted top, carved to resemble the distinctive hat of Daikoku, one of Japan's seven gods of good fortune, often associated with wealth and prosperity. This detail suggests the household's aspirations and perhaps its gratitude for abundance. The wood itself, likely *keyaki* (Japanese zelkova), is known for its remarkable flame-like grain, a characteristic that would have been admired for its natural beauty and strength. The substantial size of this piece speaks to its functional purpose and the central role the hearth played in daily life.