Two Yixing Zisha Teapots and Covers

About the Item

Both Yixing Zisha teapots appear to be modern to republic-era pieces. Yixing Zisha teapots are made from rare Zisha (紫砂) clay, which is exclusively mined in Yixing, China. This unique clay is highly porous, allowing it to absorb and enhance the aroma and flavor of tea. The teapots are handcrafted, requiring a high level of craftsmanship, and works by renowned artisans. The depletion of high-quality Zisha clay and limited production have continuously increased their rarity. Left Teapot This teapot features a rounded body with a smooth, reddish-brown Yixing clay texture. The spout and handle are adorned with carved details resembling tree branches, adding an organic aesthetic. The most distinctive element is the horse figurine on the lid, sculpted in a relaxed, seated posture. One side of the teapot is decorated with a raised relief of a gnarled old tree and golden plum blossoms, emphasizing natural beauty. The overall shape is well-balanced, making it both a functional and artistic tea-brewing vessel. Right Teapot This teapot showcases a warm, natural earthen tone, with the spout, handle, and lid finial intricately sculpted to resemble bamboo joints. The bamboo motif was a popular design among scholars from the late Qing Dynasty to the early Republic period, reflecting a refined literary aesthetic. The surface maintains a minimalist elegance, with a subtle sheen that highlights the natural texture of Yixing clay. The bamboo-shaped handle and spout provide an excellent grip, making this teapot a harmonious blend of practicality and artistic craftsmanship. Period: Modern to Republic Period Medium : Yixing Zisha(紫砂) Type : Teapot Size : Left - 10cm (Height) x 7cm(Mouth Diameter) / Right - 13cm (Height) x 7.5cm(Mouth Diameter) Condition : Excellent Provenance : Acquired in late 1990s from Hongkong * Yixing Zisha Pottery Teapot Yixing Zisha pottery are highly valued for their unique clay composition, exceptional craftsmanship, and deep cultural significance. These teapots are made from Zisha (紫砂) clay, which is exclusively mined in Yixing (宜兴), China. This clay is extremely rare and precious, known for its high porosity, which allows the teapot to absorb the aroma and flavor of tea, enhancing the tea's richness and depth over time. Unlike ordinary ceramics, Yixing teapots do not require glazing, maintaining a natural, smooth texture while ensuring even heat distribution, making them ideal for tea brewing. Each Zisha teapot is 100% handcrafted, with a tradition that dates back to the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644). Unlike regular ceramics, they are not made using a potter’s wheel but are instead meticulously shaped and assembled entirely by hand, requiring a high level of artisanal skill. Particularly, master potters (名匠) create unique styles that are highly prized in the collector’s market, often fetching high prices due to their artistic and historical value. As a result, antique Zisha teapots and those crafted by renowned artisans are considered rare and invaluable works of art. Beyond being a functional tea-brewing vessel, Yixing Zisha teapots are deeply intertwined with Chinese tea culture. Since ancient times, they have been favored by scholars, poets, and literati, symbolizing refinement, sophistication, and harmony with nature. Traditional motifs such as bamboo and plum blossoms reflect Chinese aesthetics and philosophical ideals, further enhancing the teapot’s cultural significance. Today, high-quality Zisha clay is becoming increasingly scarce, and government restrictions on clay mining have significantly reduced production. Additionally, the declining number of skilled artisans trained in traditional techniques has made authentic Zisha teapots even rarer. For these reasons, Yixing Zisha teapots have evolved beyond mere tea-brewing tools; they are now appreciated as fine art and valuable investment pieces, with their worth continuously increasing over time.

Dimensions:
Height: 5.12 in (13 cm)Diameter: 2.96 in (7.5 cm)
Sold As:
Set of 2
Materials and Techniques:
Pottery
Place of Origin:
East Asia
Period:
20th Century
Date of Manufacture:
Modern to Republic Period
Condition:
Minor fading. The joint between the spout and the body of the right-side piece has been repaired.
Seller Location:
seoul, KR
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU9577243437502

$790

Three Blue and White Teapots from Ca Mau Ship, C 1725, Qing Dynasty, Yongzheng E

Located in seoul, KR

The pieces are adorned with intricate motifs and scenes that may represent traditional Chinese landscapes, daily life, or historical tales. Period : Qing Dynasty, Yongzheng Period P...

Category

Antique 1720s Vietnamese Qing Antiquities

Materials

Ceramic, Porcelain

Located in Chatham, ON

Vintage Yixing Zisha teapot - rare indigo glaze - finely carved dragons to each side - carved flames in relief to the lid - black stain to the hand carved...

Category