For many in Japan, the name Nanbu tekki conjures up images of heavy, black, cast-iron tea kettles. Overseas, though, this name, along with “Nanbu ironware,” has become synonymous with colorful iron teapots, and in many European boutiques they are known simply as Iwachū.
Iwashimizu Suekichi founded the Iwachū iron casting workshop in Morioka, Iwate Prefecture, in 1902. After nearly 120 years in business, it has certainly become an established name in the industry, but compared to the 400 years of Morioka’s Nanbu ironware history it still remains a newcomer, which might help explain the spirit of melding tradition and innovation it brings to the traditional craft. Given its modern designs and flexible management strategies, Iwachū may not seem much like a traditional craft maker, but Iwashimizu Yayoi, the firm’s current president, is quick to say: “Iwachū’s greatest asset is the wealth of tradition and local history we have built”…