Antique Japanese Wooden Pulley Block Tackle Rope Iron Hook Rustic WO538
Description
Antique Japanese Wooden Pulley Block Tackle Rope Iron Hook Rustic WO538 This is an antique Japanese wooden pulley block (kassha) set, complete with an old hand-forged iron hook and a long traditional natural fiber rope. Judging from the faded hand-painted ink characters on the side (likely a merchant's mark or shop name), the rust on the thick iron hook, and the deeply weathered patina of the wood, this piece likely dates back to the Meiji or early Showa period (late 19th to early 20th century). In traditional Japan, robust pulleys like this were essential functional tools (mingei) for hoisting heavy loads. They were commonly used in various settings, such as pulling up fishing nets or sails on traditional wooden boats, lifting heavy timber at construction sites, or hoisting goods into the upper levels of a merchant's traditional earthen storehouse (kura). Today, this deeply aged block and tackle serves as a fantastic rustic or industrial accent for modern interiors. It can be creatively repurposed to hang large indoor plants, display vintage pendant lighting, or simply act as a striking, wabi-sabi architectural artifact. Size (Wooden Block - each piece) Length: 27 cm / approx. 10.6 inches Width: 12.5 cm / approx. 4.9 inches Depth: 5.8 cm / approx. 2.3 inches Total Weight (including blocks, hook, and rope): 2920 g / approx. 6.43 lbs Condition Used antique condition. As an authentic functional tool with significant age, it shows heavy signs of practical use. This includes deep scratches, dents, chips, and darkened areas on the wood, fading of the ink writing, heavy rust on the iron hook, and wear, fraying, and dirt on the rope. These elements confirm its age and add to its robust rustic charm. Please check the photos carefully to confirm the exact condition before purchasing.
If you would like to see a video showing how the pulley moves, please feel free to contact me.