Seals and Markings on purple Clay Teapots
The markings (seal impressions) on purple clay teapots serve as important evidence for identifying their age and the maker's name. These are also the sole basis for valuation in the cultural relic, antiques, and auction industries. As a result, they are the easiest place for forgers to manipulate. Throughout history, skilled purple clay artisans and masters have been meticulous about using seals and marking their works. Their seal impressions not only demonstrate high artistic standards but also exhibit strict attention to detail in terms of seal layout and form, which is a critical factor in authenticating these marks.
Generally, the marks of renowned artisans feature the following characteristics:
Seal production is highly refined. The seals used by famous artisans are either made by themselves or commissioned from renowned seal engravers, showcasing a certain level of artistry. In contrast, counterfeit seals lack this quality, often appearing lifeless. The use of seals is appropriately stylized. Some artists may use two or more seals with different styles on a single Teapot, carefully positioning them to achieve an overall harmonious appearance. The placement of inscriptions and seals is appropriate. The marks on purple clay teapots typically appear on the lid's interior, base, handle end, or body. The size of the mark is suitable. The size of the inscribed text or seal is proportionate to the teapot itself. The size of the mark is in harmony with the size of the teapot, larger marks for larger teapots and smaller ones for smaller teapots. The size of the mark is also in balance with its location on the teapot; marks on the bottom tend to be larger than those on the lid or handle, and any deviation from this norm may indicate a forgery.
On the bottom of Tea teapots, potters usually leave their marks. Some masters designed multiple marks to prevent imitation, while others intentionally blurred their marks to deter forgers. Therefore, when selecting a master's teapot for collection, it is important to gather books and materials that document the marks of famous potters, ensuring accuracy before making a purchase decision.
There are three main methods of forging marks on purple clay teapots:
First: Genuine teapot with a fake mark. This refers to a teapot that has been confirmed to be made by a specific artisan in a particular era, but the maker neglected to carve a seal. A subsequent owner might add a seal to enhance or more easily identify the teapot's provenance, but the added mark often fails to match the original teapot's style, having the opposite effect and revealing the addition. This method is no longer used. Second: Genuine mark on a fake teapot. This occurs when the seal of a deceased potter is used by another, whose craftsmanship is limited, leading to a teapot that does not meet the standard of the original artist's style, thus exposing the forgery. Third: Fake mark on a fake teapot. This is a common approach taken by forgers.