Iwachu gold and rust colored Arare kyusu

This Iwachu Arare design kyusu is 5.5" (14 cm) in diameter x 3" (7 cm) high, minus spout, lid and handle. It weighs 2 lbs 8 0unces (1.58 kg) and holds about 18 ounces (.53 L). It is similar to two other Iwachu kyusu in my collection and has what I have concluded is the older Showa (1926-1989) mark. They are all just a bit different in dimensions and weight, though very close.

The bottom is discolored by soot from a tealight candle used in a warmer that came with it. I have been able to remove some of the soot (image 4), but doing research to determine how to remove all or most of it without damaging the finish. Because of the soot and the potential for damage to the urushi (lacquer) lining, I am not a fan of using warmers with these teapots. Covering the teapot with a towel or teapot cozy will do accomplish same thing, I think, or close enough.

This, and the warmer, came with a Teavana pamphlet. Teavana did not exist until 1997, so I have some doubt now about identifying the mark as Showa. It was not in my plans to add another kyusu of this size to my collection, but it was inexpensive, I did not have a warmer and it is a good documentation opportunity because of the mark and the pamphlet. It is also an example of why using a warmer is not a great idea. It is a pretty kyusu, though. I will probably not use these larger kyusu very much since I seldom want to make that much tea at one time, but will christen it and use it a few times to experience using it.