Veteran pot enthusiasts, when examining a pot,
always pay particular attention to the bottom of the purple clay pot.
What is so important about the pot bottom?
Why can experts determine the quality of the pot just by looking at its bottom?
The pot bottom hides a lot of unknown information.
Hence, when examining a pot, one must look at its bottom!
Dabin's pots feature Bamboo knife wet engravings and seals; in the era of Man Sheng's pots, seals were abandoned, and now, in addition to seals on the pot bottoms, inscriptions are also added, sometimes even poems that harmonize with the pot's theme. The importance of the pot bottom has become increasingly prominent. Today, we will reveal the secrets of the pot bottom!
Types of Pot Bottoms
Pot bottoms come in square and round shapes, concave and convex, flat, ring feet, and raised feet, as well as ribbed patterns and Tree stump forms. They can be roughly divided into plain bottoms, pressed bottoms, added bottoms (ring feet), and nail feet. There are two methods of joining: visible join and hidden join. Pots with straight and angular shapes are suitable for visible joins, while those with rounded and simple shapes are better suited for hidden joins.
(1) Flat Bottom: The pot bottom is plain without any processing. As there is no concern for holding large amounts of Tea water, this type is often used for smaller pieces, such as the “Level” style.
(2) Added Bottom: A ring foot is added during the pot-making process and joined using clay slip. This is also known as “digging out” the bottom. The addition should be consistent with the overall shape of the pot.
(3) Pressed Bottom: “Pressed” shares the same meaning as “pressed down.” This method saves time and labor. Using a finger or a template, pressing the bottom of round-shaped pots results in a neat and efficient finish, making it simple and elegant, like the One Pearl or Loquat styles.
(4) Nail Feet: Inspired by the tripod feet of bronze vessels, nail feet support the pot body stably and imbue it with a sense of vitality. The size of the pot, as well as the height, thickness, and fineness of the feet, should be proportionate and harmonious with the main body.
Rules for Pot Bottoms
Over countless years, numerous purple clay artisans have continuously experimented and refined their techniques. Over time, specific types of pot bottoms have emerged for certain pot shapes, creating classic “rules.”
For example, Shi Piao pots typically have three legs, while Chuan Lu pots have four feet. Jing Lan pots usually feature added ring feet, and Line Round pots often have pressed bottoms. Gong Chun pots generally have irregularly concave bottoms, while Pumpkin pots have ribs converging toward the navel of the gourd.
When using the pot, use a pot care tool to avoid stubborn water stains and tea rust on the bottom. When displaying the pot, opt for a wooden stand. When handling tall or large pots, avoid placing them directly on their bottoms. Be careful not to rub the bottoms of ribbed or shaped pots against hard surfaces.
The bottom of a purple clay pot should be harmoniously matched with the overall design, enhancing the spirit of the entire piece. The various styles of purple clay pot bottoms are not randomly added but should be integrated seamlessly with the entire pot. Sometimes, a good pot bottom can truly be the stroke of genius!