The cast iron teapot, also knows as a “tetsubin”, is a classic Japanese teapot that dates back to the seventeenth century. These sturdy pots were originally considered to be ordinary kitchen tools, generally used to boil water and brew tea. It wasn’t until the 19th century, when tea drinking became popular in Japan, that having cast iron teapots became a symbol of status in the home. Cast iron teapots have yet to wane in popularity since the seventeenth century because of their beauty and function. These teapots heat evenly, retain heat well and last a lifetime, which make them perfect heirloom pieces. Cast iron teapots are also considered good for your health, since cast iron teaware adds significant traces of iron into each infusion. These teapots are also covered in black enamel to prevent rust from forming inside.