The Arare teapot from Mariage Frères (reference A4006) is cast iron, made in Japan in the tradition of artisan cast ironware. It takes its name from its pattern: the “arare” grain, which suggests fine hail frozen onto the metal. Cast and patinated in deep colours, it has a sober, sculptural presence on the table.

Which colours and sizes?

The Arare teapot is available in black, red, blue, green and plum. It comes in three sizes:

• 0.6 L, in black, blue or red;
• 1 L, in blue, plum or green;
• 1.4 L, in black, red or green.

For cast iron teapots, the stated volume refers to the outside of the teapot, not its useful capacity: the amount of tea served is therefore less than the figure shown. Keep this in mind when choosing a size.

Why cast iron?

Its thick wall, pleasingly dense in the hand, retains the heat of the simmering water for a long time. The Arare teapot is designed for shared tea, to be served to several people. It joins the other models in our teapots range.

How should it be prepared and cared for?

Our guide to the cast iron teapot explains how to prepare a cast iron teapot before first use and how to look after it, and explains the difference between a cast iron teapot and a tetsubin. To compare with other materials, see our guide to choosing your teapot.