A well-known saying circulates among Yixing clayware collectors: "Among the myriad variations of teapots, the Shipiao stands first." As a classic form in Yixing clay teapot craftsmanship, the Shipiao teapot has undergone refinements by generations of artisans, evolving into a masterpiece that perfectly blends aesthetic appeal with practical functionality. Among the Shipiao family, the Flat-lid Shipiao, crafted by the master Gu Jingzhou, stands out as a true gem. Building on the foundation of Gu's original Shipiao design, it features a flat, pressed lid, with bold and crisp lines that lend the teapot a sleek, slender silhouette—exuding a distinctive aura of elegance and vitality.
Today, Tongxinshe Teahouse is honored to present an exclusive Flat-lid Shipiao teapot handcrafted by Master Chen Zeming, with a capacity of 120cc. This piece is one-of-a-kind, awaiting a discerning collector who truly appreciates fine Yixing clayware.
Master Chen Zeming is a highly regarded young and accomplished ceramic artist in the Yixing clayware circle. Born in 1989 in Yixing, the renowned "Pottery Capital" of China, he joined the pottery-making studio of Master Liang Qing after his military service in 2013 to study the art of Yixing clay teapot crafting. His exceptional skills and unique artistic vision have earned wide acclaim—one of his works was auctioned for 1,500 US dollars at the Ziyun Tiancheng Yixing Clay Art Special Session of the 2022 Yunzangzhai Autumn Auction.
What makes this Flat-lid Small Shipiao truly exceptional is its clay material—original cinnabar clay from Huanglong Mountain. Cinnabar clay has long been revered as a rare and precious variety among Yixing clays, and the original cinnabar clay from Huanglong Mountain is an even more scarce treasure. It is found only in the narrow layer, merely a few centimeters thick, between the yellow stone blocks on the mountain top and the jia clay ore in the mountain body, boasting limited reserves and superior quality. This particular cinnabar clay is rich in sandy texture, hence its name. Once crafted into a teapot, it takes on a warm hue of reddish brown with a subtle yellowish undertone, with fine particles faintly visible within the clay body—like twinkling stars in the night sky, understated yet layered.
However, the high shrinkage rate and strong sandy nature of this clay make it extremely challenging to shape, posing a rigorous test to the firing technology and resulting in a low yield rate of finished products. With long-term use and careful nurturing through repeated brewing, this teapot will gradually develop a smooth, lustrous patina, becoming increasingly mellow and delicate in texture. Each touch and each brew will endow it with unique, ever-evolving charm.
In terms of design, Master Chen Zeming's mastery of proportion is impeccable. The teapot body, spout, handle, and knob complement each other harmoniously, forming a series of clean triangular lines that accentuate the Small Shipiao's dynamic, upright, and elegant beauty. The teapot tapers slightly from bottom to top, presenting a plump yet not bulky form. The transition between the body and the base is executed flawlessly, striking a perfect balance between steadiness and sharp vitality.
Practically speaking, this teapot is designed with thoughtful functionality. Its wide lid opening allows for easy tea leaf loading and excellent heat dissipation. Combined with its relatively flat body, it greatly enhances the tea compatibility—whether it is oolong tea, Pu'er tea, or green tea, it can fully bring out the authentic flavor and aroma of the tea leaves. The spout extends naturally and powerfully, ensuring a smooth, steady flow of water and a clean, precise cut-off without any dripping. The three Go-stone-shaped feet provide stable and robust support, lifting the entire teapot and imbuing it with a poised, upright demeanor—exuding the refined grace of a modest gentleman.
The entire teapot boasts a concise, understated design that exudes classic elegance and understated strength. The Shipiao teapot has long symbolized grandeur and stability, and this Flat-lid Shipiao perfectly embodies these qualities. Placed on a tea table, whether for solitary sipping or a refined gathering with friends, it will undoubtedly stand out as a striking highlight—capturing the millennia-old essence of Yixing clayware and the boundless charm of tea culture.