Metalwork

Nambu Ironware

南部鉄器

RegionIwate — 盛岡市・奥州市水沢区
Originsc. 1659
StatusMETI-designated Traditional Craft

About Nambu Ironware

Nambu ironware is cast iron products made in Morioka and Oshu Cities, Iwate Prefecture. Starting in 1659 when the Nambu domain lord invited a kamashi (pot maker) from Kyoto. Featuring unique 'arare' (hailstone) patterns created by sand casting, iron kettle water becomes mellow as iron dissolves—boosting health-conscious popularity in Europe and China. Sold at the Louvre Museum shop in Paris, it's a globally recognized Japanese craft brand.

Techniques & Materials

Craft terms are shown in the original Japanese — these are proper names with no standard English equivalents.

Techniques

砂型鋳造霰文様打出し漆焼き付け

Materials

砂型(粘土+砂)うるし

Where to see & buy

Workshop names are in Japanese; links go to their official sites.

Where it is made

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