Japanese Cast Iron Tetsubin Teapot Hobnail Pattern w/ Mark
Vintage Japanese Cast Iron Tetsubin (鉄瓶) — Arare Hobnail Pattern Teapot with Stamped Maker's Mark
Japan, Shōwa period (mid-20th century)
5.75″H × 6.5″W
This tetsubin has an allover arare (hobnail) pattern cast into a rounded body, with a swing handle and a ball-form lid knob. It shows an old working patina throughout, with rust-toned mineral staining inside typical of a kettle that's seen real use.
Arare — the raised hobnail texture cast directly into the mold — is one of the most recognizable finishes in Japanese ironware, originally meant to increase surface area for more even heating over charcoal. A stamped mark sits on the shoulder near the spout but isn't clearly legible.
Form: Tetsubin (cast iron kettle), swing handle, ball-form lid knob
Construction/Decoration: Cast iron, allover arare (hobnail) pattern
Mark: Stamped mark on the shoulder near the spout, not clearly legible in photos
Period: Shōwa period, Japan (mid-20th century)
Dimensions: 5.75″H × 6.5″W
Weight:
Condition: Old working patina overall; interior shows expected rust-toned staining from use; lid seats properly and handle swings freely. No cracks or repairs noted.