Iron and Lacquer: Nambu Ironware's Materials—A Tale of Local Blessings and Modern Choices

Members-only2025.12.04

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#Illustrated Dictionary of Japanese Craft

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Thinking about where the materials for our everyday tools come from and the journey they’ve taken can truly enrich our lives.

During our research on Nambu ironware, we uncovered the complex history of its core material: iron. This metal, responsible for the craft's famously sturdy and simple character, has had a far from simple past.

The evolution of its materials—from an ideal 'local-first' model to the modern challenges of today—mirrors the changing nature of craftsmanship itself. In this piece, we'll explore the story of the materials at the heart of Nambu ironware and look toward its future, guided by the insights of its artisans and makers.

The Genesis of a Craft: Born from the Bounty of the Land

Nambu ironware flourished in Iwate for a simple reason: the land provided everything needed for casting. It was almost destined to be.

Charcoal from the mountains served as fuel, while molds (igata) were crafted from the sand and clay of the Kitakami River. Even the key ingredient, iron, was sourced locally in the form of high-quality iron sand (satetsu).

Local artisans used local fuel to process local iron sand, creating tools that became essential to daily life. From our modern viewpoint, this was a perfect, self-sustaining cycle of 'local production for local consumption.'

This story of materials reveals a time when crafts were deeply intertwined with the local culture and economy. This solid foundation allowed Nambu ironware to refine its quality and forge its own unique path of development.