The Japanese have been using Tetsubin teapots for centuries to brew tea, heat water & provide comfort and warmth. The design of the teapot reflected the status of the owner and was, and still is, considered a work of art. Each Cast Iron Tetsubin teapot is hand-cast, as well as hand-finished, and fitted with a removable stainless steel mesh infuser basket. The interior of each pot is lined with porcelain enamel to prevent rusting and requires very little care. These are not tea 'kettles' but are tea brewing vessels. Heat your water in a separate vessel and then pour into the tetsubin. These should not be placed directly on the stove top burner. Hand wash.20 ounces