The Japanese tetsubin is a vintage teapot made of cast iron. It is used to brew tea, but not as a stove-top kettle. Nambu tekki, or cast ironware, originated in the northern capital city of the Nambu clan, approximately 400 years ago. Iwachu, which is located in the Morioka Prefecture, is one of the finest and largest producers of modern Nambu ironware, and a good source of collectible teapots in Japan today. Iwachu’s tetsubin and cookware earned a worldwide reputation, for their superior beauty, quality and durability. The tetsubin manufacturing process typically consists of 64 to 68 steps, most often taking two months to complete, making it one of the most sought after collectible teapots. Most of this process is still performed by hand at Iwachu, with strict quality and control maintained by a “Kamashi”, or master craftsman. Just to show how serious a process it is, it takes at least 15 years to become a full-fledged craftsman and 30-40 years to become a Kamashi.

Cast iron is a wonderful material for cookware because heat is distributed more evenly and it retains heat for a much longer period of time, compared to regular cookware. This is all due to its exceptional insulating properties. Japanese cast ironware is also exceedingly durable and versatile and resistant to rust (specially coated inside). Tetsubin require very little care. They are never to be washed with harsh soaps or detergents. Simply rinse with plain water and wipe dry, after each use. There is a natural mineral that builds up inside the tetsubin, which is considered to be good for your health, in Japan. Plus, it helps to prevent the pot from rusting. It quickly has become one of the best collectible teapots, and for good reason.

The stunning, Japanese Nambu Iwachu cast iron tetsubin you see dates from the mid 20^th century. The Iwachu and Nambu names are stamped under the spout, so you know that it is genuine. Its gracefully tapered handle is fixed and the tetsubin has a traditional and elegant design. This gorgeous cast iron vintage teapot has a raised hob nail, or hira, textured upper surface atop a sleek base. A very unique point is the knob on the tetsubin’s lid, which is the motif of a demon on one side and a normal face on the other. The Japanese believe that “kami”, or spirits, inhabit rocks, water, trees and other natural objects. These spirits can both do good or evil and the tetsubin’s knob represents the dichotomy between the two, giving it a mysterious attribute. This amazing and authentic, Japanese Nambu Iwachu cast iron tetsubin is absolutely without equal in terms of artistry and quality and will bring a simple element of beauty to your collectible teapots collection.

You can buy this and other collectible teapots here.