Some collectors do not understand the principles of nurturing a pot. They think that once they buy a pot, placing it in a clean spot is enough, so they often just put it in a display cabinet or box and consider their task done.
Such a method of storing pots is the least desirable. A newly purchased pot should be carefully used for Tea brewing to nurture it before storage.
Clever use is actually the best way to maintain it, although rare purple clay artifacts are exceptions. Contemporary purple clay collector Tang Yun liked to use his “Man Sheng” pots for tea brewing in rotation like ordinary Teapots during his lifetime.
He once said: “I don't want to use antiques as decorations; I want to use them. If something can be used, I will use it.” Some guests were at a loss when he served them tea brewed in such a precious pot.
Mr. Tang laughed and said: “These are external possessions that should be used regularly; only by using them regularly can they become part of oneself, achieving a state where both object and self are forgotten. Most people do not know this.”
Preserving purple clay is indeed important, but maintenance is also essential, otherwise it is easily damaged. Brewing tea is the best way to nurture the pot.
In summary: The “correct method” of brewing tea and nurturing the pot:
① Thoroughly clean the inside and outside of the pot.
② Avoid contact with oil.
③ Actually Brew tea.
④ Wiping and brushing should be moderate.
⑤ After use, clean and air dry.
A purple clay pot, after long-term use and careful nurturing, becomes smooth and lustrous, dignified and substantial, with a subtle sheen, full-bodied, subtly luminous, and appears to have lifted its mysterious veil, revealing its perfect form, material, and craftsmanship Beauty.
Due to the “brewing tea and nurturing the pot” method, which requires thoroughly cleaning the inside and outside of the pot, it is easier to see the quality of the purple clay and the workmanship. Additionally, pots made from good-quality clay have better tea-brewing effects, producing soft water with a sweet fragrance and throat resonance. The older the pot, the stronger the throat resonance and the softer the water quality.
When implementing the “brewing tea and nurturing the pot” method, there are two points to pay special attention to:
First, some people like to use a thin string to connect the lid and handle when using the purple clay pot, but this can actually damage the lid. If the string breaks or the knot comes undone, the lid will shatter.
Second, when washing the purple clay pot, never make the mistake of shaking off water drops. There is a risk of accidentally bumping the pot against the faucet and damaging it.