“Fanning the Fire” Japanese Tetsubin

Decorated with a raised fan motif, this aptly named teapot was used to boil water for traditional tea ceremonies. Known as tetsubin, the kettle’s cast-iron construction is said to change the quality of the water, making tea taste mellow and sweet. Made by pouring iron in clay or sand molds, the kettle has a rustic texture in pleasing contrast to its refined fan decoration, crenelated “skirt,” and graceful swing handle. This kettle also bears a six-character mark of the artisan who crafted this exquisite vessel. The kettle was made in 1924, during Japan’s Taisho period, a period that introduced concepts of modern Western design into traditional forms.