The greatest charm of a Purple Clay Teapot lies in its collectible value. A well-made and aesthetically pleasing purple Clay Teapot, cared for with the right methods over time, will see its value increase gradually as time goes by. Works by renowned masters are particularly sought after, as the saying goes: “What use are earthly jewels, compared to a single ball of clay from Yangxin.” This has led some unscrupulous merchants to produce fake purple clay Teapots in pursuit of profit.
In particular, “ghost-made” teapots have been a hot topic in recent years. Those familiar with teapots can easily distinguish them, but newcomers who are not in the know still find it difficult to tell the difference!
When you see a purple clay teapot, start by comparing it to the artist's classic styles or similar models, analyzing aspects such as material used, forming technique, effort put into the work, and artistic style:
Material: If the artist is skilled in making purple clay teapots, they usually pay close attention to the materials used. They have personal preferences when it comes to choosing clay and would not use unfamiliar materials.
Forming Technique: This refers to the artist's forming habits, which leave traces on the body of the teapot. These are characteristics unique to the artist, and there will be slight differences between individuals. This is very important for identifying whether a teapot is a “ghost-made” piece.
Teapot Style: Each teapot maker has a unique style. While techniques may evolve over time, the lines and details of the finished product are akin to an individual's handwriting, and these become habits. Techniques and styles remain consistent, with little variation.
By understanding the patterns, there are always clues to follow and ways to avoid being misled:
1. Look at the quantity of the artist's teapots available on the market. If their teapots are everywhere, it's best not to buy them. Typically, these are likely “ghost-made,” especially if the artist heavily advertises their work.
2. Check the stock available. When considering purchasing a teapot from a specific artist, keep in mind that 20 teapots would represent about one-quarter of their annual production. It's unlikely that someone could produce 100 to 180 teapots in a year.
3. Examine the teapot itself. Skilled teapot makers tend to specialize in certain shapes, and there are usually patterns to follow. Some teapots claimed to be made by a certain person might feature a different design every day, with new models every week and month, and even when making the same teapot, each handle and spout looks different. Is this possible?
With careful observation, there are always clues to be found. Hopefully, these points can truly help everyone.