Nobuho Miya Bottle Opener

Nobuho Miya and Nambu Ironware

Nobuho Miya is a master forger of traditional cast iron, and works from the ironware studio founded by his family in Iwate Prefecture, Japan. Each individually handcrafted design uses original Nambu techniques and reflects tradition and skill accrued through experience. It takes at least 15 years to become a competent iron-maker and 40 years to achieve master craftsman status. Nobuho Miya, an accomplished master craftsmen and designer, limits production output from his small workshop due to high demand and a small staff of artisans. Nambu ironware is thought to have originated in the middle of the 17th century, when the Nambu family, who were ruling the current northern part of Iwate prefecture, built Morioka castle. They invited artisans from Kyoto to have them make Buddhist altar articles, armor, and tea ceremony kettles as part of their plan to revitalize the city and promote cultural activities. With the rich natural resources of the land and the support of the domain leaders, Nambu ironware soon became the local specialty of the area.