Nambu Ironware, Iron Kettle, MARUGATA-HANAIKADA, 1.1L, Shokado by Traditional Craftsman Shingo Kikuchi

We take this opportunity to introduce an exceptional Tetsubin that is distinct from those fashioned by Oitomi. This exquisite piece has been meticulously crafted by Shingo Kikuchi (菊池真吾), a distinguished traditional artisan hailing from Shokado. Notably, his studio is situated in Oshu City, Iwate Prefecture, mirroring our own location.

The appellation of "traditional craftsman" carries official recognition by the Japanese government, denoting those who excel in maintaining advanced techniques and skills. Among the select few artisans designated as traditional craftsmen in the realm of Nambu Ironware, Shingo Kikuchi stands as an esteemed representative. In 2015, one of his iron kettles was presented to Pope Francis, the 266th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church — a testament to his standing as a master craftsman of the modern era.

Nambu ironware embodies the mastery of two distinct methodologies: Nama-gata, employing sand molds, and Yaki-gata, employing molds crafted through the baking of clay. This Tetsubin, masterfully shaped through the Yaki-gata technique, emerges as an exceedingly rare creation, with only a limited number of pieces achievable from a single mold.

The Tetsubin boasts a charmingly rounded and endearing silhouette, adorned with delicate cherry blossoms. The lid, a harmonious complement, features an enchanting chrysanthemum flower along its edge.

Intriguingly, the Japanese term "HANA" translates to "flower," while "IKADA" denotes a "raft." The portmanteau "HANAIKADA" signifies a string of petals adrift upon the surface of a flowing river, akin to a floating raft.

Within, the surface is coated with an oxidized film through the kama-yaki technique, eschewing the use of any paint. The reddish tones evident in certain interior portions are a natural outcome of kama-yaki.

While this Tetsubin may bear a higher price compared to its counterparts, its distinction arises from the Yaki-gata method, its bold and traditional aesthetic compositions, and the personalized inscription of the traditional craftsman, "南部 真吾" (Nambu Shingo). With these attributes, this extraordinary Tetsubin stands poised to be your enduring companion.

Please be advised that this item is also available at our physical store, with stock availability potentially fluctuating based on timing. We kindly request your understanding that there might be instances where an ordered item is temporarily unavailable.

Moreover, it is prudent to note that due to the handmade nature of each piece, minor variations might exist between the actual product and the photographs.