Nara teapot

Our new cast iron teapots come from Jinghua, in the heart of Zhejiang province, China. These pots (based off a traditional design known as 'tetsubin') are originally from Japan, and they are very difficult to produce in China. It's always a challenge to learn a new art, different from your own, and tea crafts require patience and discipline. As good fortune would have it, however, we met a talented new friend in Jinghua who is spending his life learning this time consuming art.

Mr. Lu is the director of this family owned tea pot factory, inherited from his father two decades ago. He and his siblings run all parts of the business, and a dedication to perfection is evident. During our visit to see art in person, we watch as Mr. Lu pauses several times to take a look at a pot in progress, cheerfully giving feedback to a newer craftsperson on how to better polish or shape the pot. If an imperfection is found at any point - even after painting and buffing - the pot is melted down and begun anew. It's never too late to turn back and try again, and the amount of sorting and inspection that takes place is astounding. Mr. Lu's father still works in the factory, even though he's supposed to be enjoying retirement, and gives lessons to the workers. His son has learned well: a kind, generous and utterly hilarious soul - everything tea itself should be.

This family produces dozens of unique tea pot designs, including some that we've never seen before sold in the United States. We're positive you'll love them just as much as we do, and we hope to bring you new varieties, shapes and colors in the future.