Japanese Jizai Kagi Hearth Hook

This Japanese hearth hook dates to the late 19th century and would have originally been used to suspend cooking pots above a traditional sunken floor hearth (irori). Known as a jizai kagi, these adjustable pothooks are usually comprised of an iron rod within a length of bamboo, ending in a carved wooden fish and an iron hook. In addition to adding decorative appeal, the carved fish functions as a lever, used to raise or lower a cooking pot out from the flames below. This traditional jizai kagi is in wonderful condition, well-preserved with all essential components and richly aged by a beautiful dark patina.

Additional Dimensions:
Bamboo: 36.5"L x 2.25"Dia
Fish: 12"W x 2.75"D x 7.5"H