Teaware

Many pot enthusiasts cherish their Yixing clay pots, yet they may be unclear or even completely ignorant about the relevant knowledge. Here are some essential facts about Yixing clay pots that are commonly asked by enthusiasts, which we would like to share with everyone. ① Why do Yixing clay pots made from the same type of Dicong Qing have different colors? The color can vary due to differences in firing times and temperatures, among other factors. As a result, even clay sourced from the same location can produce Yixing clay pots of different colors when fired. As shown in the following image (taken at the China Yixing Ceramic Museum), there are color variations even among samples of the same type of Dicong Qing clay. ② Does a lack of an inner stamp always mean the pot is not handmade? This is not necessarily true. Some individual artisans have different habits, and there are handmade pots without inner stamps. The presence or absence of an internal stamp cannot directly determine whether a Yixing clay pot is entirely handmade; it needs to be evaluated holistically. As a beginner, you don't need to worry about whether the pot is fully handmade or partially…

There are many "obviously fake" imitations and traps in the Purple Clay market. Many enthusiasts often ask us to authenticate various teapots. Here are a few types of teapots that you may have come across. Be very careful. Injection-molded teapots Pure Purple Clay cannot be used to make injection-molded teapots, so during the process of making these, a lot of glass water is added to the clay. The clay is placed in a ball mill for 48 hours, turning it into a very fine slurry. The slurry is then poured into molds, left for 1-2 minutes, taken out, dried, and processed into teapots. One person can produce 300-500 injection-molded teapots in a day. The glass water does not evaporate at high temperatures but seeps directly into the Purple Clay. Glass water contains water, alcohol, ethylene glycol, corrosion inhibitors, and sometimes methanol, formaldehyde, and glycol. Methanol is highly toxic to the human nervous and blood systems, causing toxic reactions when ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. Methanol vapor can damage the respiratory mucosa and vision. To deal with such fakes, first, do not be misled by low prices of a few dollars or tens of dollars, buying cheap teapots with…

Many people have been curious about whether a purple clay teapot will scald your hand when brewing tea, and they believe that a purple clay teapot does not get hot to the touch. Some even think that if a purple clay teapot does scald your hand when brewing tea, it might be a fake one. In fact, different people have different views on whether a purple clay teapot gets hot when brewing tea, and this is quite normal. If a purple clay teapot really does scald your hand when brewing tea, is that normal? A purple clay teapot does indeed conduct heat slowly, but compared to vessels made of materials like glass or ceramic, slow heat conduction doesn't mean it absorbs no heat. When water is poured in, the teapot won't scald your hand within a few seconds, but over time, the heat will certainly radiate out. After all, it's boiling water at 100 degrees Celsius; how could it not scald your hand? Saying it doesn't scald your hand might mean you have thick calluses on your hands or the water isn't hot enough. When brewing tea, the water fills the entire pot, and in the enclosed space, the evaporated…

 Savoring tea is a form of enjoyment and an art of living. The teapot, for the tea connoisseur, is the cradle that nurtures the tea leaves. It endures hardship and toil, silently holding and developing the aroma and flavor of the tea – this is both the task and spirit of a teapot. When selecting a teapot, one should not be confined to narrow considerations. After all, valuing rarity or prestige is more suited to antique collectors or experts. Generally speaking, a new teapot that meets basic criteria, if properly maintained and adept at developing aroma and flavor, is sufficient. Therefore, whether ancient or modern, a good teapot is always desirable. The teapot is the centerpiece of tea ware, and the focus of the tea brewing process that most influences personal experience. Thus, whether in selecting or maintaining a teapot, proper methods must be followed. This article lists seven key principles for selecting a teapot for your consideration. These are: aesthetics, material quality, pot flavor, precision, water pouring, balance, and suitability. Here they are: I. Aesthetics Everyone has different tastes when it comes to aesthetics. The aesthetics referred to here primarily concern personal preference. For the shape and appearance of…

    Authenticity Guaranteed As with any artwork that gains value, forgeries are bound to follow, and purple clay teapots are no exception. Here are several ways to distinguish authentic purple clay teapots from fakes: First, the clay and its texture. The clay used in different eras comes from different veins, each with distinct colors, particle sizes, and luster. Early pots were made from clay closer to the surface, which gives them a rougher texture and lighter color. The "sky-blue clay" of the late Qing period differs from other historical clays; it was coarse enough to be engraved with bamboo knives and wooden seals. Second, the craftsmanship and technique. Purple clay artisans have their unique styles, such as the smoothness of the surface, the thickness and curvature of lines, and the sharpness or roundness of contours. Third, the spirit and aura. Genuine works by renowned artists possess an unimitable spirit and vitality, making this the most important criterion for identification. These artists combine exceptional artistic sensibilities, skilled craftsmanship, deep understanding of clay properties, and mastery over firing temperatures, resulting in distinctive pieces that stand on their own. Fourth, calligraphy and painting characteristics. The landscapes, flowers, birds, and figures depicted on the pots…

 When selecting a purple clay teapot, enthusiasts usually fear two things the most: first, buying a fake purple clay teapot, and second, purchasing one made from chemical-laden clay. So, how should one choose a good purple clay teapot? Look at the Texture Pure mine purple clay has a restrained luster, feels like warm jade, displays a stable color, and has an aged appearance. When using high-quality clay, noticeable results can be seen within half a month. Teapots made from chemically treated clay show little change no matter how they are cared for; they remain dry and brittle. Although they may achieve a so-called green bean paste effect, the surface glaze (caused by the addition of wood shaving water, also known as quartz water) is too heavy. The tea water does not penetrate, nor do the oils from handling, which means such a teapot cannot be properly conditioned over time. Check Water Absorption Genuine purple clay teapots, with the exception of those made from red clay and some segment clays, generally have strong water absorption capabilities. This is why it is often said that tea tastes better when brewed in a purple clay teapot compared to other types of teapots. Teapots…

Brewing tea can be simple, a pot and a cup are enough to enjoy the charm of tea. Brewing tea can also be elaborate, an elaborate tea setting adds more flavor to tea tasting. "Elaborate" is a sense of ceremony, and it reflects one’s taste. Each utensil has its purpose, so what kind of tea utensils are there on a tea setting? Today, I have compiled a list of tea utensils for you. Let's see what your tea setting might be missing! Basic Tea Utensils Gaiwan: A gaiwan is a teaware consisting of a lid, bowl, and saucer, mainly used for brewing tea. Teapot: A teapot is a vessel with a spout used for brewing and pouring tea, it is one of the tea utensils primarily used for brewing tea. Fairness Cup: This is a utensil used to evenly distribute the tea liquor before pouring into tasting cups. Tasting Cup: A short cup used for drinking tea. Smelling Cup: Used for smelling the aroma, it is taller and thinner than the tasting cup, often used when brewing highly aromatic Oolong teas from Taiwan. Tea Pad: Smaller than a tea tray, used for holding tasting cups and serving tea. Tea Scoop:…

Purple clay is professionally known in the industry as purple clay ore, commonly referred to as five-color soil, and also known as "heavenly blue clay," "reddish-brown clay," "base groove clear clay," "bright red clay," etc. Generally, it refers to the basic raw material for making purple clay pots, a specialty of Yixing.It is found deep beneath the rock layers of Huanglong Mountain, between the "jia clay" strata. In Yixing, purple clay can be found in the clay mines within the Dingshu area. Products made from purple clay, such as purple clay teapots, rice cookers, vases, tea sets, and other purple clay crafts, owe their popularity largely to the tea-drinking culture. A notable feature of the purple clay teapot is that it does not overpower the aroma of tea and lacks a cooked scent; over time, even an empty pot will release a tea fragrance when filled with boiling water.The Aging Process of Purple ClayIn the field of purple clay, aged clay is generally referred to as aged or seasoned clay. This process is also known as soil nurturing and is commonly called storing the clay. It is one of the processing steps for purple clay ore. After the purple clay…

Often, teapot enthusiasts will send me pictures on WeChat asking, "Mr. Chen, how is the clay of this teapot? Is it good?" When buying or enjoying teapots, one must consider the quality of the clay. However, there are many different opinions about what constitutes good clay, and this can be confusing. Many people struggle with this issue. But if you love teapots, you will eventually have to face this question. It can be difficult, but at the same time, it can also be easy. No matter what type of clay is used, excellent clay will always have certain distinct features. For those of us who love, buy, and enjoy teapots, identifying these features is not too hard. A good teapot should first look comfortable, with a natural and restrained luster. The luster of a Purple Clay Teapot is referred to as having a "subdued glow," meaning that its sheen is restrained and appears to emanate from within, very soft and pleasing to the eye. This matte finish is known in the industry as "water color," and good clay will definitely have a fine water color. When you gently stroke the surface of the teapot, you will find that good Purple…

Poetry can become an obsession, as can martial arts, describing someone who is so fond of a hobby that they are in a state of infatuation, behaving quite differently from normal people. In the world of purple clay teapots, there are also such people! Symptom One: Using Tools to Play with the Teapot 01. Using a magnifying glass (to check for scratches or sand popping out) 02. Using a compass (to check if the spout or lid is perfectly round) 03. Or a ruler (to check the alignment of three points) 04. Or a timer (to check how many seconds it takes to pour out all the water) 05. Or a measuring cup (for example, the certificate might say 200cc, but the actual measurement might be 190cc or 215cc) and other tools to measure the accuracy of the teapot. Is this a bit obsessive? While most people wouldn’t do this, there are certainly some so-called teapot experts who have these habits. Making teapots isn’t easy, so we suggest that those with this habit be cautious when buying teapots. Handmade items are not machines and cannot be perfect; perhaps handmade teapots are not suitable for you. Using a 100x magnifying glass…

The main subject of Chinese tea culture is people, and tea exists as an object to serve humans—it is there for our enjoyment. Chinese tea culture is often referred to as a philosophy of beauty. It encompasses the Buddhist aesthetic of circular and ethereal beauty, the Taoist sense of profound and expansive beauty, as well as the Confucian elegance and subtlety. So, what tools should one prepare for brewing gongfu tea? 1. Tea Placement Tools ① Tea Scoop: A tool used to transfer tea from the tea canister into the teapot. ② Tea Spoon: Used to transfer tea leaves from the scoop into the teapot. ③ Tea Funnel: Placed over the teapot mouth to guide the tea in and prevent leaves from spilling outside. ④ Tea Presentation Dish: A multi-functional tool that not only serves the functions of the above three but also allows you to observe the shape of the tea, judge the quantity, and smell its dry aroma. ⑤ Tea Pestle: Used to break long tea leaves in the presentation dish to make them easier to put into the pot. ⑥ Tea Caddy: Small canisters for portioning out tea leaves. 2. Tea Management Tools ① Tea Tongs: Used…

Chinese people have been drinking tea for several thousand years. As a common beverage in daily life, tea has a fresh and elegant flavor that can quench thirst as well as promote health, making it a favorite of many. While everyone loves to drink it, not everyone knows how to correctly choose a container for brewing tea. Brewing tea requires the right container. In addition to good tea and good water, the right vessel is also essential. In daily life, the choice of what teaware to use depends on the type of tea, the number of people, and local tea-drinking customs. Green tea: Fine and precious green teas such as West Lake Longjing, Dongting Biluochun, Junshan Silver Needle, and Huangshan Maofeng are best brewed in transparent glass cups, which allow you to observe the slow unfolding, movement, and transformation of the leaves in the water—a process known as "tea dance." Second- and third-grade stir-fried green teas, pearl tea, and baked green teas are mainly enjoyed for their taste or to quench thirst and can be brewed in porcelain cups. Lower-grade green teas contain more fiber, are more durable when steeped, and have a stronger flavor, making them suitable for brewing…

It seems like yesterday, yet it has truly been an era of vicissitudes; the smoky clouds of the Song Dynasty have faded, but the long river of history has left behind the immortal legend of the purple clay teapot. The teapot says, "I am still waiting, waiting for that tea that understands me." The tea says, "I have always been waiting for that purple clay teapot that embraces me." Thus, a tea leaf falls into the pot, meets water, and from then on there is tea, leaving in the human world a tale of tea that can never be fully told. Tea leaves are sentimental. China is the homeland of tea, where there is no shortage of tea brewing vessels. However, tea leaves have a special fondness for this particular pot—the purple clay teapot. The purple clay teapot is also loyal to the tea leaves. For the sake of tea, it gives everything it has, devoting its entire life to protecting the tea. The tea says, "There are countless fine teas in the world, but why do you always overlook them and choose only me?" The teapot says, "In the world of purple clay, the ancient adage 'serve one master…

Many newcomers to the tea ceremony often ask, what type of tea ware is suitable for beginners? Here's a small suggestion: when starting your tea journey, consider beginning with acquiring a host cup. So, what is a host cup? By definition, it's a cup specifically used by the host, distinct from those used by guests. It's a cup that represents your taste and personality on the tea table. There's a well-known saying in tea circles: "Without a personal cup, there's no complete tea session." On the tea table, you can often see that the cup used by the person brewing tea (the host) is different from the cups used by the guests. If you pay close attention, you'll notice that the host cup tends to be somewhat more exquisite than the cups used by guests. This article will introduce host cups based on their characteristics and types. How does a host cup reveal the host? A host cup can generally give an idea about the host's identity, taste, and preferences. Host cups come in various materials and designs, some featuring painted or carved patterns such as flowers, birds, mountains, and streams. The owner of such a cup usually has artistic…

A common question I often receive from teapot enthusiasts is: can the speed at which a teapot dries after being watered determine the quality of the clay used? In fact, there is no direct correlation between how quickly a teapot dries and the quality of its clay. Nor should the speed at which water dries be used to distinguish whether a teapot is made of genuine purple clay. Below are several examples to illustrate this: The speed at which the water dries is directly related to the following factors: 1. The surface finish (mingzhen) of the teapot: If the surface finish is well-executed, the water will dry faster; otherwise, it will take longer. 2. The fineness of the clay (mesh size): A higher mesh size (finer sand particles) means that the body of the teapot is more compact, so the water will naturally dry faster. Conversely, it will take longer. 3. The shape of the teapot: Certain shapes, like the Beauty of West Lake, Dragon Egg, or Siting teapots, do not tend to retain water on their surfaces due to their smooth contours, so they dry quickly. On the other hand, shapes like the Antique, Flat Lotus Cover, or Hollowed…

Believe it or not, most of us have had the experience of keeping pets from a young age. When we were little, our parents were usually the main caretakers, so our experience was more about having fun. Later on, when you became financially independent, you had more options for pets—cats, dogs, fish, birds, and so on—but how many successful experiences did you have in raising them? A tea lover's pet is an emotional bond, different from typical pets, as a tea pet can truly be kept without being discarded or abandoned. The pet of a tea lover is known as a tea pet. A tea pet, as its name suggests, is nurtured with tea water. It is actually a small handicraft made of purple clay or yellow mud, such as elephants, turtles, toads, Pixiu, pigs, and so on. Different tea pets carry different meanings; some symbolize wealth and contentment, while others represent happiness and good fortune. People collect them according to their preferences and place them on their tea tables. A beautiful tea pet is one that a tea lover spends time and effort slowly "cultivating." When drinking tea, a tea lover gently waters their pet with tea or brushes…

Some collectors do not understand the principles of nurturing a teapot and believe that simply placing it in a clean spot after purchase is sufficient. Thus, they often place the teapot in a display cabinet or pack it into a box, considering their task complete. Such a method of storing teapots is highly inadvisable. Newly purchased teapots should be carefully nurtured during tea brewing sessions before being stored. Using a teapot skillfully is actually the best form of maintenance, although this may not apply to rare purple clay artifacts. Tang Yun, a prominent contemporary collector of purple clay, liked to use his "Man Sheng" teapots in rotation for brewing tea just like ordinary teapots. He once said, “I don’t want to use antiques as mere decorations; I want to use them. If something can be used, I will use it.” Some guests would feel awkward when he served them tea brewed in such precious teapots. Mr. Tang would laugh and say, “These are merely external possessions; they should be used frequently. Only through frequent use can they become part of one’s inner self, achieving a state where both the object and oneself are forgotten. Most people do not understand this.”…

A purple clay teapot is a durable tea utensil that can be used indefinitely as long as it isn't chipped or damaged. However, if not used carefully, various issues can arise, such as odors and tea stains. So, how should one clean a purple clay teapot? Let's discuss the cleaning process today. Odor and Tea Stain Cleaning If a teapot is left unused for a long time or if the tea residue isn't promptly discarded, it may develop mold or an unpleasant odor. The ancients have recorded a method for cleaning this: If the teapot has absorbed unwanted odors, fill it with boiling water, pour it out after a moment, then immediately immerse it in cold water. Quickly remove it from the cold water and pour out the water. This will restore the original aroma of the teapot. ▲ Clearing out tea residue The idea is to first fill it with boiling water, shake it gently a few times, pour it out, and then immerse it in cold water, which removes the odor. Repeat this several times. If a teapot is used frequently but not cleaned promptly afterward, another situation can occur where tea stains accumulate. If you encounter stubborn…

Pu'er shengcha is a treasure in the hearts of tea enthusiasts. To truly appreciate its unique flavor and rich aroma, mastering the correct brewing method is essential. Whether you're a tea art novice or an experienced tea lover, this article will provide you with the most detailed and friendly guide to brewing Pu'er shengcha. (Image source: network, delete upon request) Understanding Your Pu'er Shengcha Before brewing, it's key to understand the basic information about the tea. Pu'er shengcha undergoes natural fermentation, giving it a unique fragrance and taste. Its leaves are typically large, greenish in color, and have a fresh, natural aroma. The quality of Pu'er shengcha is closely related to its origin, harvest time, and storage duration, so when purchasing, choose reliable brands and channels. Preparation: Utensils and Water There are many options for brewing Pu'er shengcha, including covered bowls, purple clay pots, and glass teapots. Each type has its unique advantages, but the most important thing is to choose utensils that you feel comfortable using and can fully showcase the characteristics of the tea. The quality of water greatly influences the tea infusion. Ideally, the water should be clean, odorless, and have moderate mineral content. The best choice…

Zisha Teapot In the early years of the Republic of China, the city of Yixing, known for its bamboo groves and kiln smoke, welcomed an ordinary day. However, in Dingshu Town, the Ceramics Apprentice School was bustling with excitement. The owners of Utilization Company, major kiln households, and prominent figures in Dingshu Town were all agitated. It turned out that a walnut-shaped teapot, created as a graduation piece at the Ceramics Apprentice School, had been made exceptionally well, drawing much attention. The walnut-shaped teapot was a specialty of renowned teacher Fan Dasheng, who had recently won a gold medal at the Panama Exposition. This particular teapot was even better than the one that had won the gold medal. Although it belonged to the same type, it was not a mere copy but instead possessed more charm and grandeur. The creator of this graduation piece was Feng Guilin, who was just a teenager at the time. As the saying goes, "A myriad of shapes emerge effortlessly from his hands, unmatched by any other." Feng Guilin's zisha teapots vary in form—some are plump, others slender; some tall, others short; some square, others round; some intricate, others simple. They often undergo changes and…

Nurturing a teapot is a pleasure that requires a certain understanding of purple clay. Over time, a specific set of methods for nurturing teapots has been developed. Various supporting tools have emerged in the process. However, what is considered the correct and optimal method for nurturing a teapot? Dedicate Each Pot to a Specific Tea Type Due to its unique double-pore structure and the arrangement of molecules like scales, purple clay can absorb tea infusion (with an absorption rate of 1.6% - 7.05% for purple clay teaware), causing changes in the pot's body and allowing it to retain the aroma of the tea it contains. Teapots made of materials such as glass, porcelain, and stainless steel cannot keep tea at high quality for extended periods due to their dense and impermeable nature. After the initial "opening" process to remove the earthy smell from the new pot, experienced tea lovers try various types of tea with the pot. Based on personal preference, they decide which type of tea the pot will be used for and stick to this choice, ensuring "dedication of each pot to a specific tea type." When brewing tea, always match the tea with the appropriate pot, strictly…

When the lid of a pot breaks, enthusiasts often want to find a replacement, while potters are often reluctant to make one. This can lead to some frustration among collectors. However, understanding the characteristics of Yixing clay and the process of making Yixing teapots can help enthusiasts comprehend the situation. In the world of Yixing teapots, there is a saying: “It’s easier to make three pots than to match one lid.” This is because the properties of Yixing clay vary, and factors such as clay mixing, firing temperature, and firing method can affect the final appearance of the pot, with different contraction rates after firing. ▲Dezhong pot in Ding Trough Qing, plain style A Yixing teapot undergoes two contractions from its raw state to being fired: drying contraction and firing contraction. The degree of contraction is directly related to the type of clay, the moisture content of the raw pot, the firing temperature, and the firing time. It is impossible to replicate the exact firing temperature and time, so even if the same type of clay is used to make identical pots, the size of each firing will vary slightly. ▲Dezhong pot in Ding Trough Qing, bamboo engraving style Therefore,…

Almost all pot enthusiasts are tea lovers. Because they enjoy drinking tea, they are particular about the utensils used for brewing, which is why they choose the brewing tool, the purple clay pot. However, to obtain a good tea-drinking experience, brewing is undoubtedly an important step, but storing the tea also has a significant impact. Many pot enthusiasts use purple clay pots for brewing and purple clay cans for storing tea, which shows how meticulous they are. But just as there are rules for nurturing a purple clay pot when using it for brewing, there are also several considerations when using a purple clay can for storing tea. Today, I will talk about how to store tea in a purple clay can, so your tea can be stored better. 1. Characteristics of Various Tea Cans Tea is a dried product that can absorb moisture and become damp, causing a change in quality. It has a strong affinity for water and odors, while its aroma is easily volatile. (Therefore, tea can also be used as a deodorizer, placed in the refrigerator to absorb odors.) If tea is not stored properly, it can deteriorate. Therefore, the type of container used and where…

Some people find wood-fired purple clay teapots stunning, while others think they lose the original beauty of purple clay. Ultimately, the choice is left to individual tea enthusiasts. In addition to wood-fired pieces, there are also reduction-fired and ash-covered purple clay teapots. Today, we will cover all three techniques in one go. Wood-Fired Purple Clay The wood-firing (naked firing) process gradually increases temperature. On the first day of firing, a low-temperature smoking process begins, allowing the carbon released from the wood to fill the pores of the clay. Once the surface of the clay turns black due to the carbon, the temperature can be further increased. This process takes approximately 30 hours. The characteristic of wood-firing is that ashes and flames directly enter the kiln. Unlike conventional glazes, the falling ashes naturally adhere to the surface of the piece and, when fired at high temperatures, form a lustrous, rich, and layered natural ash glaze; Molten or unmelted wood ash creates smooth or rough textures on the surface, along with various color changes, leaving traces of where the fire once resided. The result is natural and unadorned, unpredictable and non-repeatable. The color and texture of a wood-fired purple clay teapot depend…