Antique Cast Iron Tea Kettle (Tetsubin) with Temple Shrine on Lid #1799

Description

Cast iron Tetsubin are teaware kettles produced for hundreds of years and admired by tea aficionados worldwide. These hand-crafted teapots were developed for the Japanese tea-ceremony (chanoyu) and used only to boil water. Made from clay molds, they are  renown for their zen simplicity and elegant shapes. Made in the Meiji era (1868-1912) this one has two manufacturer’s seals on its side.  Their iron content makes the taste of water boiled for tea richer, sweeter and more mellow; the iron content provides additional health benefits and its iron structure keeps the water hot longer. The surface texture, unique shape and temple ornamental knob on its lids make this pot especially unique and charming. Traditionally these pouring vessels have been popular with collectors and considered as status symbols, not simply beautifully designed accessories. They are wonderful gifts for any tea lover. The outside of this one is in excellent condition, and like all old Tetsubin cast iron kettles, has developed rust on the bottom which is completely normal and can be removed by boiling green tea inside the pot. It is recommended for display only to enhance any style kitchen.