In fact, there's no universal standard for this question. Teapots made from aged Clay can be nourished relatively quickly, while duan clay teapots, which have a lighter color, are harder to nourish but develop a very appealing luster once they do. Some types of clay may seem unremarkable when the Teapot first comes out of the kiln, but after just a few infusions, noticeable changes start to appear, with the overall color becoming much more pronounced.
How Long Does It Take to See Results When Nourishing a Teapot?
If you use a zisha (purple clay) teapot daily by Steeping Tea in it once a day, you'll begin to see subtle changes on the surface of the pot after about a month, giving it a smoother and richer feel. After one month, the body of the pot will develop a luster that is subdued yet radiant, clearly differentiating it from a new teapot. High-quality clay may even start to form a patina before the month is up. After a year of regular use, the teapot will take on an increasingly refined appearance, exuding a unique spirit. When a zisha teapot has been properly cared for over time, it will eventually achieve a state of patina.
The Formation and Expression of the Patina Culture
I. What Is Patina?
When an item is produced and processed, it naturally begins to look old over time, even if it hasn't been damaged. You can still sense its age as the material's surface undergoes some changes.
This is a natural process for all things, but people have given this specific term “patina” to the changes that occur in certain artifacts, crafts, and natural products that have cultural significance. They have since come to admire and seek out this texture, leading to the development of a cultural phenomenon.
II. The Manifestation of “Patinization” in Zisha Teapots
1 Physical Changes on the Surface of Zisha: External Cleaning and Use
2 Chemical Changes on the Surface of Zisha: Oxidation and Other Chemical Reactions Between External Substances and the Zisha Surface
3 Residual External Substances and Their Physical and Chemical Changes: Various Inorganic and Organic Particles Remaining on the Zisha Surface, Undergoing Their Own Physical and Chemical Changes
These three categories of changes occur simultaneously and complement each other over time, ultimately altering the surface texture of the zisha and producing a patina.
Besides natural usage, artificial methods can accelerate certain aspects of change, but these methods will inevitably differ from natural usage. While they can produce a certain type of patina (or a change in texture), there will be differences in appearance and touch compared to the patina formed through natural use.
III. Why Do People Pursue Patina?
First, “time is hard to come by,” making patina, which carries the meaning of time, particularly precious.
Second, there is a natural human inclination to find comfort in items that have been used over long periods, as people instinctively feel a stronger connection to older objects, which in turn makes them feel more familiar.
Third, high-quality clay has a higher oil content, which allows for faster patination, indicating better quality clay!
The value of patina is bestowed by time and natural use, a principle that cannot be altered. When it comes to patina, it's important to let nature take its course and maintain a casual attitude. Don't obsessively rinse your zisha teapot just for the sake of achieving patina.
The joy of a zisha teapot lies in the process, not just the end result. Take your time and be patient in nurturing your teapot. Spend a lifetime caring for it and savor the different flavors it develops at various stages.