Nambu Ironware Iron Kettle Chasen Shape Japanese Sarcandra Pattern 0.9L By Studio Nanohana, Nami Sasaki

This piece is a creation by Nami Sasaki, a female artisan based in Oshu City, known for her solo studio's exquisite craftsmanship. It is produced using Yakigata method.

The most distinctive feature of this iron kettle is its unique "Chasen-gata" (tea whisk) silhouette. Modeled after the chasen—an essential bamboo tool used for whisking matcha—the form flares gently from the base, lending a sense of refined serenity and a dignified presence to any setting.

The body of the kettle features a delicate relief of a Japanese White-eye (Mejiro) resting among the branches of Japanese Sarcandra (Senryo). Native to East Asia, the Senryo is an evergreen shrub known for bearing vibrant red berries amidst glossy green leaves even in the depths of winter. Historically cherished as a symbol of wealth and prosperity, it remains a prestigious plant for traditional New Year decorations in Japan.

Despite the unyielding nature of cast iron, the craftsmanship beautifully captures the soft texture of the bird’s feathers and the succulent ripeness of the berries, imbuing the piece with life. This narrative continues to the lid’s handle, where another lovely Mejiro perches quietly. As if drawn by the berries, the bird transforms the simple act of lifting the lid into a poetic moment, evoking the tranquil beauty of a winter garden.

Finally, the handle (tsuru) features the "Mushikui" (insect-eaten) design. By intentionally incorporating small imperfections that mimic the natural wear of the wild, this technique embodies the spirit of Wabi-sabi—the appreciation of beauty in imperfection and the passage of time. This seasoned elegance ensures the kettle will be a cherished companion for decades to come.

The interior features an oxidized coating created through the traditional kamayaki (kiln-firing) process, and no artificial painting or lining has been applied to the inner surface.

Please note that some reddish spots may appear inside the kettle as a result of this kiln-firing process. These are a natural characteristic of this traditional manufacturing method and do not affect the quality or use of the product.