Nanbu Ironware Teapot | Fuji-style Arrow

Nambu Ironware that Captivated MoMA

The hallmark of Roji Associates’ Nambu ironware lies in its balance between traditional authenticity and innovative form — bold yet refined colors, and soft, graceful curves.

While preserving the inherent qualities of Nambu ironware — its excellent heat retention and the way iron enriches and softens boiled water — the brand has produced distinctive works such as the “Tamagono-ko” teapot, whose gentle egg-like form delights the eye, and color teapots finished in traditional Japanese hues like sakura pink and shikon purple.

International Recognition

These contemporary designs have earned international acclaim. In 2000, Roji Associates was recognized by the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York, where its products were selected for the museum shop. Since then, the company’s creations have drawn attention both domestically and abroad as designs that harmonize tradition with modern lifestyle aesthetics. Their fusion of craftsmanship and contemporary expression continues to expand the possibilities of this centuries-old art form.

Nambu Ironware

Nambu ironware (Nambu Tekki) is one of Japan’s most celebrated forms of cast iron craft, passed down for over 400 years in Morioka and Ōshū in Iwate Prefecture.

It originated in the 17th century under the patronage of the Nambu clan, evolving from tea-kettle making for the tea ceremony.

Each piece is carefully cast by skilled artisans who pour molten iron into sand molds — a process that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. The dense iron structure transmits heat evenly and retains warmth, while softening the taste of boiled water.

Water boiled in a Nambu iron kettle gains a mellow, rounded flavor that enhances coffee and tea alike.

Over time, the surface of the iron develops a beautiful luster, deepening in character the more it is used. With proper care, it can last a hundred years or more — truly a lifelong tool.

This respect for longevity and the Japanese way of treasuring well-made tools has made Nambu ironware a global symbol of Japanese craftsmanship and timeless design.