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Arai Koubou

Hinomaru Kyusu Teapot

Hinomaru Kyusu Teapot

Regular price $99.00 USD
Regular price Sale price $99.00 USD
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Journey into the heart of Japanese tea culture with the Hinomaru Kyusu Teapot, a masterpiece meticulously crafted by Arai Koubou, in the rich heritage of Yamagata's iron kettle-making, a legacy spanning over 900 years. This teapot, born from Arai Koubou's exceptional skills and dedication, is more than a vessel - it's an exquisite fusion of history, craftsmanship, and artistry.

Made from premium iron and adorned in vibrant colors, the Hinomaru Kyusu Teapot not only promises durability but also brings a touch of elegance to your tea ceremonies and imparts a delicate lightness to the pot that adds a luxurious touch. Savor every moment of your tea rituals with this teapot, a true testament to the timeless beauty and cultural significance of Japanese tea craftsmanship.


Detail

Size: W 5.4in x L 5.4in x H 4.1in / W 13.6cm x L 13.8cm x H 10.5cm
Material: Iron

Due to being handmade and coloring characteristics, each product has subtle variations in appearance.

Care & Use

  • Handwash only
  • Do not use in microwave or oven
  • Please note that using metal scrubs or abrasive detergents may damage the surface
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Artisans of Tea Ceremony

The history of ironwork and tea ceremonies in Yamagata is deeply rooted in the cultural tapestry of Japan. Yamagata, renowned for its traditional iron kettle craftsmanship, boasts a rich legacy dating back centuries. As the tea ceremony gained popularity during the Edo period, the demand for exquisite iron kettles flourished. Yamagata, with its distinguished ironworks, became a hub for creating these essential utensils. The intricate artistry and time-honored techniques passed down through generations have elevated Yamagata's iron kettle-making to an esteemed status, contributing significantly to the region's cultural heritage and the broader appreciation of Japanese tea ceremonies.

Introduced to Japan from China, tea enthusiasts innovatively added a spouted "tea kettle" with a handle, birthing the Iron Kettle. Today, these Japanese handmade teapots, notably exemplified by the renowned Yamagata teapot from Arai Koubou, have evolved into international symbols of Oriental art.

Brand History

Established in 1973, Arai Koubou, a representative of Yamagata Castings, upholds the highest standards of quality, following the most traditional techniques of creating iron kettles. Mikio Arai, the current head of Arai Koubou, hails from a long line of iron pot craftsmen in Yamagata, with the family tradition extending back for generations. Despite the declining trend of family traditions in Japan, Arai chose to carry on his father's legacy, becoming a national treasure with his unparalleled craftsmanship.

Arai's meticulous process involves designing, molding, embossing, assembling, injecting cast iron slurry, shaping, and desanding, resulting in stunningly beautiful iron pots. The unique "thin-flesh casting technique" employed by Arai Koubou, passed down for more than 900 years, produces lightweight and delicate iron pots with thin walls, a testament to the extraordinary level of craftsmanship. Arai's teapots, blending Kyoto and Nanbu techniques, stand as a pinnacle in mid to high-end iron pots, reflecting a synthesis of history, folklore, sculpture, painting, and craftsmanship. The Arai Koubou Iron Kettle is not just a water boiler for the tea ceremony; it is a profound embodiment of cultural richness and artistic mastery that captivates tea lovers worldwide.