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Iron Kettle Shinjuhada -1500ml (base diameter 9cm)

The Japanese craft of Nambu-tekki (cast iron) originated in the middle of the 17th century and remains popular today. The northern capital city of the Nambu Clan, present day Morioka in Iwate Prefecture is renowned for the production of cast-metal objects, and the region’s casting techniques have been handed down by generations of artisans.

The production process of making traditional cast iron consists of more than 60 steps, all done by hand.

Nambu iron kettles (tetsubin) are both functional and beautiful, and can be passed on for generations if properly maintained and treated with care.

The exterior of the kettle is finished with Urushi (Japanese lacquer) to prevent rusting while the interior has a thin oxide film that results from the casting process. The film enacts with minerals in the water when water is boiled softening the water for a more pleasant taste and better cup of tea.

Kamasada Casting Workshop
A third generation master craftsman of nambu tetsu, or traditional Japanese cast iron, Nobuho Miya produces hand-made Tetsubin (Iron Kettles) and ironware utensils at the Kamasada Casting Workshop, founded by one his ancestors in the Meiji era. It is said that it takes at least 15 years to become a decent ironware maker, and 40 years to become a master craftsman. Miya-san is that rare craftsman who has not only mastered the techniques of his chosen craft but also possesses a keen sensibility for contemporary design.