Many people don't understand: a purple Clay Teapot—it's just a teapot, right? Why do some sell for tens of thousands of yuan? They find this hard to comprehend. An ordinary teapot might cost a few hundred yuan, but an expensive one can go for tens of thousands—what's the difference?
Is it because of the clay? Is the clay for a teapot that costs tens of thousands of yuan particularly expensive? In fact, the amount of clay used in making a teapot isn't much; it only makes up a small proportion of the teapot. The price doesn't reflect the cost of the clay; rather, the price determines the quality of the clay used. There is certainly a difference in the clay between cheaper and more expensive Teapots, but the reason they are expensive is not simply due to the cost of the clay.
Is it because the maker is famous and has a high title? In people's preconceived notions, before even seeing the teapot, if they hear it's the work of a certain master, they assume the price will be shockingly high. As these preconceptions become entrenched, they equate fame and high titles directly with the price of the teapot.
High titles and fame do not necessarily correlate with the value of a Purple Clay Teapot. A teapot commands such a high price because, in terms of craftsmanship and aesthetics, it reaches a certain level. This is what determines its value. If the craftsmanship is exquisite, the design is innovative, the lines of the shape are beautiful, and there are few examples available on the market, these factors are the most important.
The celebrity effect does not directly apply to the purple clay teapot industry. It should be reinterpreted as the artistic value of the work itself. If someone becomes famous through hype and increased exposure, I believe that over time and with greater transparency, consumers will come to see through such so-called celebrities. For example, if you frequently see teapots by a certain teacher on the market, and there are many variations, then you should be skeptical.
A truly valuable teapot is one that, although expensive, is worth the price.