Surrounded by mountains in Dingshu Town, Yixing, lies a treasure of purple clay—tender clay ore. This claystone, close to the earth's surface, was originally mined mostly around Zhaozhuang. Later, due to its increasing scarcity, red clay extraction began in the Fudong area. Beneath the tender clay ore layer hides a hard ore that requires tools to excavate. The ancients called it "stone yellow clay"—now known as red clay ore. As Zhou Gaoqi praised in Yangxian Minghu Xi (Records of Yangxian Famous Teapots) during the Ming Dynasty: "It is the stone bone untouched by wind and sun; when fired, it turns cinnabar red," highlighting its innate beauty.
"Small red clay" is pure tender clay without any additives, rich in iron oxide. Refined in a kiln at around 1170°C (Grade 2 temperature), it transforms into an elegant cinnabar red. Its texture is fine with subtle sand particles, dense and compact, and the 13-14% shrinkage rate is perfectly balanced—smooth and warm to the touch, with understated graininess. Due to varying iron content, the fired clay exhibits natural hues such as cinnabar red, begonia red, red with a hint of yellow, yellow with a hint of red, or red with a hint of purple—vibrant yet not garish, growing more mellow and dignified with long-term use. Among all small red clays, Zhaozhuang's is particularly precious: its base material is pure and free of impurities, with a rich, genuine color and abundant oiliness. Compared to vermilion clay, it has a milder shrinkage rate, higher yield, and excellent plasticity. Its non-crystallizing property allows craftsmen to fully express their artistry, making it the pinnacle of small red clay. With far superior air permeability to vermilion clay, it is an ideal vessel for brewing Wuyi rock tea and white tea.
This teapot is a 120cc handcrafted masterpiece by potter Pang Hongzhi, born in Anhui in 1990. Since 2015, she has studied full-hand pot making under her husband Chen Gang, specializing in square-shaped teapots with works that blend elegance and dignity. The 120cc compact capacity is perfect for solo sips or intimate tastings with a few friends, exuding refinement. The teapot features a sleek, square silhouette with sharp, powerful edges, showcasing rigorous and regular geometric beauty. Visually, its lines are straightforward and vivid, hiding a quiet strength; to the touch, it is warm, smooth, and rich in texture, as if embodying the precipitation of time. The pot's proportions are harmonious and balanced, stable as a rock; the lid fits seamlessly with the body, as if naturally formed. The upright spout and sturdy handle flow in harmony with the main body, unadorned yet radiant—embodying the Ming-style aesthetic of "simplicity without mediocrity" and brimming with Oriental charm.
The craftsman adheres to the philosophy of "Shouzhuo" (upholding simplicity) in pot making—refusing pretense for fame or clever tricks for gain. While the clever are versatile, the diligent are dedicated. Pang Hongzhi devotes herself wholeheartedly to square teapot craftsmanship, just as Zhaozhuang small red clay abandons unnecessary decorations, standing firm with pure texture and natural color. Those who uphold simplicity stay away from flashiness, attain inner peace, and ultimately achieve mastery—this is not only a universal truth of life but also the spiritual core of this teapot. A 120cc Zhaozhuang premium small red clay square teapot, fully handcrafted by Pang Hongzhi, integrates the essence of the mining area, the soul of the craftsman, and the charm of tea culture. It is an unparalleled choice for tea tasting, appreciation, and collection as a heirloom.