The history of pewter in Japan is long, dating back to 1500 BC, when a pewter water jug was discovered in the ruins of an ancient Egyptian city.
Pewter's unique luster and low melting point have long been used to create tableware in countries around the world.
Pewter was introduced to Japan by envoys to the Sui and Tang dynasties between the 7th and 9th centuries, and several examples are preserved in the Shosoin Repository in Nara, a renowned treasure trove.
Since ancient times, pewter craftsmen have produced teapots and tea trays, primarily for sacred sake bottles, sakaki stand holders, and other sacred Buddhist and Buddhist utensils. These items were favored by a select few, such as those in the Imperial Court. However, during the Edo period, they became widely used by the general public.
Advancements in technology have made it possible to produce a wide range of tableware, including sake bottles, tea utensils, tableware, and decorative items. Pewter is beloved as tableware for the general household, as well as for gifts, presents, and souvenirs.
Characteristics of Pewterware
Tin does not normally rust or tarnish.
With proper care, its warm luster and lustre can be enjoyed forever.
Tin's coarse molecules are said to absorb impurities from water and alcohol, giving them a mellower taste.
It is also harmless and has no metallic smell, making it a popular material for tableware since ancient times.
The technology of "Osaka Tinware" originated with the first Ihei (Sugi), who was a descendant of Kyoto tinware, which spread from Kyoto to Osaka in the late Edo period, and has flourished in Osaka for generations.
Later, in order to rebuild Osaka's tin industry, which was devastated by World War II, artisans from the workshops of the Imai, Tsuno, Tanaka, Nakatani, and Ichimura families came together to establish Osaka Tinware Co., Ltd. in 1949, and the company has continued to operate to this day.
If the things we make were simply meant to be useful, they would be expensive, and their shapes might be too familiar to be called "unique."
However, each and every one is carefully crafted based on a belief that has been refined over hundreds of years: "beautiful, and above all, practical."
Rather than being influenced by passing trends, these tins will develop depth and increase in value with continued use over time.
They are crisply cold and look cool, bringing out the flavor of drinks even more.
They also make a great gift.
Care Instructions
After use, wash sake bottles and tumblers with lukewarm water and mild detergent, rinse thoroughly, and drain.
Pewter is primarily shaped and polished using a potter's wheel.
To remove dust and dirt, gently wipe along the circumference with a soft cloth.
For heavy stains or slight discoloration, apply mild detergent or baking soda to a used sponge and scrub evenly along the circumference with a little more force.
Most stains can be removed using this method. (However, with tin products, using a sponge may cause the tin to peel off, so wipe with detergent and a soft cloth.)
Precautions for Use
Precautions for Use
Please note the following points when using tinware.
A key feature of tinware is that it is a soft metal, so it may be scratched by fingernails and dent if dropped.
Its high thermal conductivity makes it difficult to hold if hot food is placed inside.
Avoid highly acidic drinks (such as lemon juice), as this may cause discoloration.
Do not store in the freezer compartment of your refrigerator.
The crystalline structure may change (tin pest), causing the tin to easily crumble.
Do not use in a dishwasher or microwave.
Tinware is still meticulously crafted, one by one, using traditional methods.
Some items may take longer to be restocked if out of stock.
Size: (approx.) φ5.7 x H9.0cm
Weight: 165g
Material: Tin (97% or more)
Country of Origin: Japan
The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare revised the Food Sanitation Act in 2008. All tinware currently manufactured meets the revised standards and is therefore safe.