An increasing number of enthusiasts are enjoying Yixing Teapots, and the stories surrounding them continue to grow. The simple and rustic quality of Yixing clay complements its unpretentious and refined nature, both inside and out. The gentleness and dignity of scholars align with the character of Yixing Teapots. Yixing teapots, encompassing the universe within their form, resonate with the scholarly spirit.
Therefore, when appreciating teapots, one should possess a refined demeanor and avoid being too coarse. Let's delve into the taboos of enjoying Yixing teapots:
Taboo One: Flaunting Fakes
Some enthusiasts are showy but not very studious, harboring a mentality of looking for bargains. At times, they purchase inexpensive imitations and flaunt them everywhere. They seek appraisals from others, asking anyone they meet, “What do you think of this Teapot?” If someone identifies it as fake, they become upset and offended.
Taboo Two: Following the Crowd
Many enthusiasts have been enjoying teapots for years, yet lack basic knowledge. They often consult others when buying a teapot, lacking a personal standard or the ability to appreciate teapots. They frequent forums, listening to so-called experienced players, echoing their opinions. Why? Because they fail to summarize and analyze their experiences.
During the process of appreciation, we should seize every opportunity to analyze and summarize our experiences. Why is a particular teapot good? Compare teapots of the same clay, shape, and by different makers. Learning more about Yixing teapots can be done by adding WeChat ID 66777038 for discussions. Summarize the characteristics of high-quality clay and shapes to establish standards. This way, when encountering similar teapots in the future, you'll have a reference point, enabling you to improve your appreciation skills and truly understand Yixing teapots.
Taboo Three: Rushing for Success
Daydreaming about becoming a collector overnight. As the saying goes, haste makes waste. Collecting Yixing teapots shares the common trait of requiring persistence and heritage, meaning acquiring a valuable piece may take decades or even generations. Teapots by renowned artists like Shao Daheng and Chen Mansheng aren't easily obtained. In the realm of collecting, there's a pyramid structure, and only a few stand at the top. Maintain realistic expectations regarding your position in this hierarchy and proceed gradually based on your capabilities.
Taboo Four: Snatching What Belongs to Others
A gentleman does not take what belongs to others, a maxim that should guide Yixing enthusiasts. Some people, upon seeing a friend's well-nourished teapot, lavish praise and then relentlessly pursue it until it's in their possession. If you genuinely admire it, ask your friend to introduce you to the artisan so you can purchase one yourself, avoiding any discord.
Taboo Five: Refusing to Engage, Being Self-Assured
Some enthusiasts isolate themselves, refusing to interact with peers and believing themselves to be infallible. Remember, whether you're an enthusiast or an artisan, your value lies in the recognition of the community. If you lack recognition, reflect on where you might have misunderstood something and how you can improve. Engage in discussions to learn and enhance your appreciation skills, thereby making progress and achieving a higher level of expertise.
Taboo Six: Becoming Obsessed, Achieving Enlightenment Instantly
Some enthusiasts misunderstand the purpose of enjoying teapots. It's about gaining happiness and enhancing one's cultivation, benefiting the whole family. However, some enthusiasts use household funds or their spouse's savings to buy teapots, leading to deteriorating relationships, frequent arguments, and even physical altercations. Some believe they have a unique eye for finding bargains, but often end up wasting money. Others, despite having sufficient financial means, neglect their families in pursuit of teapots, becoming obsessed. To truly appreciate teapots and uncover their charm and essence, one must prioritize family harmony and marital bliss.