Williamson Auction
Live Auction

Auction 42, Objects Worth the Chill, January 15

Thu, Jan 15, 2026 02:00PM EST
Lot 92

Pair of Vintage Black Americana Painted Metal Fireman Head Tea Kettles / Clown Face Teapots – Early 20th Century Nursery or Folk Art Décor

Estimate: $300 - $800

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $5
$50 $10
$150 $25
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $250
$4,000 $500
$15,000 $1,000
$50,000 $2,500
$100,000 $5,000

Charming and unusual pair of vintage painted-metal teapots, each modeled as a whimsical fireman’s head wearing a bright red firefighter helmet. Produced in Japan (early–mid 20th century), these collectible tins feature expressive hand-painted faces with exaggerated features, vibrant color palettes, and removable tops. Each pot includes a wire swing handle and retains its original “JAPAN” maker’s label on the underside.

These pieces were often sold as novelty children’s toys or decorative teapots and today are sought after for their folk-art charm, nostalgic appeal, and bold display presence. The pair includes one kettle with a spout and a matching lidded pot without a spout.

Perfect for collectors of vintage Japanese tin toys, Black Americana–adjacent novelty décor, early 20th century kitchenware, or unique character teapots.

Condition Report

Visible surface wear consistent with age; paint loss and scratches present, especially on the backs and bases. Both lids are included and fit properly. Handles intact with expected patina. No holes or structural damage affecting display. Overall good vintage condition for age, with strong colors and solid form.

vintage Japan teapot, painted metal kettle, fireman head teapot, novelty character kettle, Japanese tin toy, folk art teapot, collectible kitchenware, vintage children’s toy kettle, painted face teapot, antique novelty décor, early 20th century Japan, swing handle teapot, firefighter kettle, whimsical teapot, Japanese export toy

Available payment options

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Shipping

For shipping assistance, we recommend contacting the following trusted professionals:

UPS Store: Phone 954-963-7134 Email store0288@theupsstore.com website

theupsstore.com/0288

Alternatively, we can provide additional recommendations for third-party shipping

services. All items will be shipped within 10 business days after payment has cleared.

Items must be picked up within 10 business days following the auction. Items not

collected within this timeframe will be placed in storage at a fee of $10.00 per item per day.