See Some of the Most Elegant Yixing Teapots

The elegant styling of the Yixing teapots is a pleasure to behold. The teapots are made of clay and come in many different designs. The clay itself is Yixing clay. Tea has been brewed in these pots as far back as the 15th century in China.The origin of the Yixing teapot dates back to the Song Dynasty, according to archeological studies.

It was found that the people in the area were using the clay to make vessels that may have functioned as teapots.

During the late Ming Dynasty an exquisitely fashioned teapot was made by a monk out of local clay. These teapots became very popular among scholars and the spread of the popularity of Yixing teapots soon began to be throughout China.

During the twentieth century the manufacture of the Yixing teapots moved to Dingshan rather than in the city of Yizing itself. There you will find the crowded streets in the city populated by many teapot shops that have quickly become very popular among the tourists to that region of China.

In 1958 a factory was opened to manufacture the Yixing teapots. With a large showroom to show its wares, it also has become a popular tourist spot. The factory produces not only teapots, but tiling, ornamental rocks, vases and figurines among other works of art.

If you should happen to come upon a teapot that is being sold as a Yixing teapot there are several ways to judge its quality.

1) A gentle tap should produce a distinct metallic sound.
2) The lid should appear seamless.
3) With the pot full of water, pouring should be smooth and go directly into the cup.
4) While placing your finger over the hole in the lid, the water flow should stop completely. This will indicate that it is a well fitted lid.

The prices of Yixing teapots range from a just a few dollars to many thousands of dollars. The prices of the teapots will depend on the artist, clay, style and age. The production methods will also effect the price.

Hand shaping with bamboo or wooden implements will increase the cost considerably. Using a slip cast method, using molds and kilns to harden will give you a lesser quality teapot.

There are specific teas that are meant to be used with the Yixing teapots. These include oolong, black, green and white tea. Water should not be warmer than 85 degrees C. Soap should not be used in the cleansing of the teapot.

Because it is made of this special clay, some of the tea will absorb into the teapot and allow for the retention and standard color of the chosen tea. A rinse with cool water and allowing to air-dry is the proper cleaning technique.

The teapots are smaller than most Western designs. Each teapot is specifically designed for personal use, not a group. In the older traditions, a cup may not have been used and the tea poured directly into the mouth from the teapot.