“After the crude embryo is fire-hardened, each one reveals its remarkable qualities. They seem to have mud for bones, yet when struck they sound like gold and jade.” Recalling Dongpo of old, a good Teapot, a few good friends, sitting and discussing the Dao, writing with brushes, the refined lifestyle of scholars was vividly portrayed. Nowadays, people living in a materialistic society need this kind of return to a higher realm, and perhaps this return starts with a cup of tea and a teapot…
Among the various Teapots used for brewing tea, purple clay teapots stand out due to their unique material, becoming a favorite tool among tea enthusiasts. Purple clay teapots enhance the flavor, color, aroma, and taste of tea, avoiding the taste of boiled water, allowing tasters to enjoy the perfect experience through taste, smell, and sight.
How much do you know about purple clay teapots? How can you get started and choose your first Purple Clay Teapot that suits you? Lovers of teapots should carefully read the following content~
01
Understand Before Purchasing
For those just starting with purple clay teapots, it's essential to learn about them before making a purchase and to study how to care for them, avoiding being misled by incorrect practices such as using Tofu or sugarcane to season the teapot.
Your first teapot is very important; properly cared-for teapots will give you enjoyment and allow you to appreciate the charm of brewing tea with purple clay. If you buy impulsively, you might end up with a poured or hand-pulled teapot, which would make it difficult to experience the joy of caring for and developing a patina on your teapot.
02
Clay Before Shape
When selecting a purple clay teapot, don't just buy based on its attractive appearance.
No matter how good the shape of a teapot is, if the clay isn't good, it cannot be considered a high-quality teapot.
The clay is the foundation of a purple clay teapot. Compared to the shape, we should pursue high-quality original mine clay and reject chemical and non-local clays.
Good clay is very easy to care for, enhances the character of the tea, and forms the base of a teapot.
Therefore, before looking at the shape, one must be able to discern the quality of the clay.
03
Craftsmanship Before Aura
The aura of a teapot describes the feeling it gives off, which Mr. Gu Jingzhou described as spirit, energy, and vitality.
However, there are some teapots today that claim to be “freehand,” “masterful without craft,” “lacking in craftsmanship,” and so forth, leaving players confused.
But everyone should understand that the so-called “aura” must be built upon “craftsmanship.” One might ask, how can a teapot that doesn't even handle connections and polishing well have any aura?
04
Practicality Before Noted Maker
Only by first considering “practical teapots” and then “teapots made by noted makers” can one distinguish what makes a good teapot. Among teapots made by noted makers, there are also many that are made by others. If one is bound by the halo of a noted maker, it's easy to fall into a trap.
Returning to the teapot itself, after assessing its quality, consider the maker's title. Only then can you purchase a true collectible or a significant piece.