Nambu Bunshūdō (南部文秀堂) - Ashtray - Cast iron

Miniature Irori ashtray in Nambu cast iron – Nambu Bunshūdō – Japan – Shōwa era, circa 1970s–1980s – with original box

Beautiful traditional Japanese item in Nambu cast iron (Nambu Tekki / 南部鉄器), made by Nambu Bunshūdō (南部文秀堂).

This is an “Irori Haizara” (イロリ灰皿), that is, a decorative ashtray reproducing in miniature an irori, the traditional Japanese hearth once placed at the center of homes for heating and cooking.

The construction is particularly interesting: a square, deep cast-iron base represents the hearth, topped by a structure that allows suspending a small cast-iron vessel thanks to a miniature system inspired by the jizaikagi, the adjustable hook traditionally used above the irori.

The small suspended vessel is also cast in iron and has a removable lid. The whole forms a charming miniature reproduction of a traditional Japanese hearth.

The piece bears a molded mark under the base.

It comes with its original box, bearing the label:
イロリ灰皿 小 – Irori Haizara, small model

Dimensions stated: 144 × 144 × 149 mm

The original instruction manual from Nambu Bunshūdō is also preserved. It presents the history and tradition of Nambu iron and various objects produced by the company.

Estimated era: Shōwa period, probably the 1970s–1980s.
Origin: Japan
Manufacturer: Nambu Bunshūdō (南部文秀堂)
Material: cast iron
Dimensions: approx. 14.4 × 14.4 × 14.9 cm
Model: Irori Haizara – small model
Condition: very good overall vintage condition. A few minor age- and storage-related marks may be present. The original box shows wear and aging visible in the photographs. Please review the photos carefully, as they are an integral part of the description.

An interesting item for both a Nambu Tekki collection, a Japanese decorative object or traditional miniature, and for its original use as an ashtray.