19th Century Japanese Hibachi
We are all familiar with the small hibachi that we can buy at the hardware store
and use as a small barbecue grill. If we broke it, we would just go back
to the hardware store and buy another.
The Early Japanese Hibachis
But how many of us
are familiar with the true design and purpose of an original Japanese hibachi?
The true Japanese hibachi has existed for hundreds of years. It is box shaped and is
almost always made from either exotic hardwoods or ceramic. It was originally used
to heat an individual room and prepare food. If one were lucky, a
servant would refill it with hot coals.
On the left is
an example of a 18th Century Japanese hibachi that Mike restored. This hibachi
is made from a rare exotic wood.
The black trim and the handles are inlaid with rosewood.
This image shows the hibachi partially restored. The drawers
along the side have been
repaired, the old stain has been removed, and Mike has begun the re-staining. Most
hibachis of this age and quality are, of course, no longer used for their original
purpose. Rather, they may become interesting end tables or vitrines used to display
art objects.
The last image shows the final result of this
restoration. This hibachi is lined with
a luxurious fabric, covered with glass and used to attractively display small
collectible objects.
Perhaps you have an interesting but no longer functional
furniture piece that could be
converted into a decorative object or a display area. If so, Mike can advise you on
the many possibilities.
Go To
Sample Restorations
Harpsichord
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