What makes purple clay pottery precious lies in its ability to articulate one's aspirations. Though the clay body may seem unrefined, it can embody profound principles; though its form may appear simple, it can convey vivid spirit. This essence, hidden within the inches of a vessel, is exactly what defines the masterpiece newly launched at Tongxin She Teahouse – Zhou Jian's fully handcrafted "Well Rail" teapot in raw cinnabar clay.
When speaking of classic purple clay works, the Mansheng teapot series stands out prominently, with pieces bearing the marks of Shen Xi and Ziye also being cherished by collectors. Among the renowned Mansheng teapots, the "Well Rail" ranks among the top three, a testament to its timeless status. As its name suggests, the "Well Rail" teapot takes inspiration from the humble well rail in daily life, yet under the craftsman's hands, it evolves into a dignified form: the slightly domed lid evokes the roundness of heaven and earth; the lines across the body are smooth yet powerful, concise and lively, holding a balance of flexibility and firmness; the body, though round, subtly hints at angularity, stable without being rigid, as if blending the down-to-earth warmth of市井 life with the nobility of literati spirit. The short, outward-tilting spout at the front and the semicircular handle at the back echo each other, creating a form so refined that adding or removing even a fraction would mar its perfection – a true embodiment of the ancient saying, "The greatest truths are the simplest." Over thousands of years, the "Well Rail" has evolved into countless styles with the times, yet it has always retained the authenticity rooted in life.
This newly arrived "Well Rail" teapot is the work of Zhou Jian, a promising young craftsman. Born in 1988 in Dingshu, Yixing, a land steeped in purple clay culture, Zhou Jian later studied under Yun Zhipeng, a renowned artist and master of arts and crafts, devoting himself to mastering fully handcrafted teapot techniques. Under his teacher's patient guidance, he built a solid foundation and steadily honed his skills. Specializing in innovative plain vessels, he infuses traditional forms with his own understanding, creating works that blend antique charm with elegance, earning him great popularity among collectors.
With a capacity of 110cc, this "Well Rail" teapot is perfect for savoring tea alone or sharing with a companion. Crafted entirely by hand from raw cinnabar clay, it combines the温润ness of the clay with the warmth of handwork. Held in the palm, one can feel the unique delicacy of cinnabar clay and trace the craftsman's dedication in the texture of the pot. As tea is poured in and brewed, it is as if one can hear the clay converse with time – a reflection of Zhou Jian's commitment to upholding tradition with his original intention, and the life philosophy that the "Well Rail" has carried through centuries.
With a fresh brew and a new teapot, in the mist of tea at Tongxin She, witness how this "Well Rail" teapot embodies principles through its unrefined clay and conveys spirit through its simple form. Perhaps this is the most touching aspect of purple clay: it speaks not a word, yet lets those who understand it read a craftsman's devotion and a heart's aspirations.