Yixing ware

Shi Dabin (1573–1648), also known as Shi Dabing, with the style name Shaoshan, was from Wuyuan, Huizhou. After finishing his private school education at the age of 13, Shi Dabin began making Yixing clay teapots. At that time, Gong Chun, a renowned master of Yixing ware, was already an octogenarian. In a certain year, month, and day, Gong Chun met Shi Dabin, recognizing his potential and took him under his wing to mentor him personally, eventually becoming his last disciple. After several years of apprenticeship, Shi Dabin inherited and mastered Gong Chun’s method of pot-making by hand modeling. He conducted extensive research on clay mixture preparation, forming techniques, design, and engraving for Yixing ware. He developed his own method of making pots using the "body-building" technique of patting and shaping. He not only expanded the variety and ornamental forms of Yixing clay teapots but also established a highly sophisticated technical system still used by the Yixing industry today, involving clay slabs and inlaying. He carefully selected various shades of Yixing clay to create a style that is ancient and majestic. Shi Dabin was extremely serious about his work; whenever he was unsatisfied with a piece, he would destroy it without…