Collection: NANBU TEKKI

About Nambu ironware

Nambu ironware originated in the mid-17th century in Morioka, a place that is suited to ironworking due to its abundant iron and clay resources. It began when the lord of the Nambu Domain (now Iwate Prefecture) invited metal casters from Kyoto to make tea pots. Thereafter, the artisans created various cast iron items, but it was during the Edo period (1603-1868) when the iconic "tetsubin" or small iron kettle was born, and its use soon spread to the common folk.
● Designated as a Traditional Craft of Japan in 1975

Techniques and developments

It is said that hot water boiled in a Nambu iron kettle has a more mellow taste, and makes tea or coffee more delicious. Nambu iron kettles are also highly durable and can be used for a lifetime.

Nambu ironware today

Though they have slightly different histories, ironware from both Morioka and Oshu are today collectively referred to as Nambu ironware. Besides the popular iron kettles, you can also find cooking pots and pans, accessories, wind chimes, and various ornaments.

WHAT'S NANBU TEKKI?
It literally translates into ironware/tekki (鉄器) from Nanbu (南部). It is produced in Iwate prefecture (岩手県,) Japan & its name comes from the feudal Nanbu clan which ruled the northeastern part of Honshu (本州)for over 700. The area was very iron rich & the iron making industry flourished in part thanks to the artisans that got invited to establish their workshops within the region in the 17th century. Overtime, the iron work from this area became a local specialty. It was expensive so not many could afford it yet it was really popular among feudal lords & the ruling classes.

The craft made it into modern times despite the World War II when many iron items were converted into weapons such as cannons & is still very expensive. The ironware artisans use traditional methods & techniques that take long time, effort & a high degree of skill. Handmade clay molds are used to make the iron wares & the name is geographically protected. Only the cast iron items made in the region of Iwate can be called Nanbu tekki.
There are around 70 companies that produce Nanbu tekki. They produce kettles, chimes, teapots & bowls. I have seen a nice pair of chopsticks rest shaped as a Nanbu kettle as well, they are in my list of things I want to get since they look super cute. There are other famous cast iron ware producing areas in Japan such as Yamagata. The cast iron ware produced in this region is called Yamagata imono.