Cast-Iron Rooster Ornament with Aged Polychrome Finish, Folk-Craft Ironware (Kodōgu)

A vintage Japanese iron rooster ornament depicting a cockerel standing proudly with head raised. Through its thick metal and three-dimensional casting, the comb, wings, breast and belly, and the long tail feathers sweeping upward are each carefully rendered. What is most appealing about the piece is that it lacks the even, bright surface of modern metal ornaments; instead it shows richly layered tones of deep brown, dark green, blue-green and touches of vermilion. The comb and wattles in particular retain a warm red that contrasts vividly with the sombre dark tones of the body, while the wings and tail show antique greenish hues, giving the whole piece the character of an old object that only comes with the passing of time.

Price NT$ 3,000 ≈ US$ 92(Approximate amount; actual prices are in New Taiwan Dollars)
Dimensions
L 11.5 × W 10 × H 24.5 cm
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Features

Rooster with Raised Head

The upright head, the bold comb and the high, spread tail feathers give the whole outline a lively spirit. It reads clearly whether seen from the front or from the side.

Substantial Iron Quality

Unlike animal figures in ceramic or carved wood, iron itself gives a steadier sense of weight and visual presence. The product information notes that a magnet will stick to it, which is consistent with its iron body.

Coloured Antique Finish

The piece is not a single black iron colour; instead dark brown, ink green, blue-green and vermilion build up rich layers. The contrast between the red comb and the dark body in particular means the piece keeps its focus even when placed on darker old wooden furniture.

Layered Relief of the Feathers

The wing feathers at the breast are arranged in several layers, while the large tail feathers behind open out like a fan. When light falls from the side, the raised and recessed feathers cast natural shadows and the relief looks especially handsome.

The Air of Japanese Folk-Craft Vintage Objects

It is not refined, ornate decorative art but leans towards a plain, robust folk-craft aesthetic with a sense of daily life. It sits especially well alongside Japanese antiques such as pottery, old wooden furniture, bamboo basketry and tetsubin (cast-iron kettles).

Specifications

Dimensions L 11.5 × W 10 × H 24.5 cm