Japan DESIGN SOFTPOWER WEB POWERED BY JAPAN EXTERNAL TRADE ORGANIZATION
Hand Crafted Tradition
Japan Style Archive:
Iron
ROJI ASSOCIATES CO., LTD.
3-29-1 Higashi-Kanamachi, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo 125-0041 JAPAN
contact person: Mr. Sakari Iwashimizu
email: siroji1996@aol.com
phone/fax: +81(0)3-3608-0652/+81(0)3-3608-0656
contact person: Mr. Sakari Iwashimizu
email: siroji1996@aol.com
phone/fax: +81(0)3-3608-0652/+81(0)3-3608-0656
In ancient times, Iwate Prefecture had an abundance of resources required for the casting industry, such as iron ore, charcoal (to heat and melt iron) and sand (to form casting molds). In the Edo period, the feudal lord of the region promoted the culture of the tea ceremony, resulting in the production of iron kettles for Japan's now famous tea ceremony; iron kettles began being manufactured in the 1800s. ROJI ASSOCIATES Co., Ltd. manufactures a variety of cast iron products that harmonize with modern life while retaining the beauty and tradition of times past.
The company’s "OLIOLE" teapot is sized to be able to fit in one's hand—an important characteristics of Japanese serving dishes. The pot's attractive and round form and casting surface texture bring affluence into people’s daily lives. Another product, the "TETSUBIN" (an iron kettle), offers both a daily iron supply (because the metal leaches into water when it is boiled) and an attractive addition to any kitchen.
Products are designed to fit modern lifestyles. The company is also planning to make various other kitchen and interior goods that blend tradition and modernity.
About the Designers
Hisao Iwashimizu
Born in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture in 1964. Participated in establishing, ROJI ASSOCIATES Co., Ltd. Nanbu iron studio in 1996. Won prize, DESIGN PLUS at Internationale Frankfurter Messe ’98 Ambiente. Displayed work at the 2003 Asahi Contemporary Craft Exhibition and won a prize of excellent work at the Japan Craft Exhibition. Won the grand prix at the 2004 Craft Competition at Takaoka City, a craft city in 2004. Now engaged in creative work at Mizusawa-ku, Ohshu City, Iwate Prefecture.
Born in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture in 1964. Participated in establishing, ROJI ASSOCIATES Co., Ltd. Nanbu iron studio in 1996. Won prize, DESIGN PLUS at Internationale Frankfurter Messe ’98 Ambiente. Displayed work at the 2003 Asahi Contemporary Craft Exhibition and won a prize of excellent work at the Japan Craft Exhibition. Won the grand prix at the 2004 Craft Competition at Takaoka City, a craft city in 2004. Now engaged in creative work at Mizusawa-ku, Ohshu City, Iwate Prefecture.



