It is the continuous transformation of the purple clay Teapot during daily use that attracts so many enthusiasts. This ongoing change is what we call teapot nurturing.
Many teapot lovers are puzzled during the nurturing process. Why doesn't my teapot develop a patina, or why does the change happen so slowly?
The following mainly introduces several factors that determine the effect of teapot nurturing.
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(1) The quality of the purple clay itself
The quality of clay materials available in the market varies widely, and some industrial clays simply cannot be nurtured to develop a patina.
After one or two years, they remain unchanged, while high-quality clay makes Teapots that are very delicate, some even showing immediate changes when exposed to boiling water.
A few rounds of Tea soaking can already make them noticeably smoother, so teapot enthusiasts pay special attention to the clay material and pursue natural purple clay.
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(2) Kiln temperature
Different clay materials require different firing temperatures, and some can produce varying effects at different temperatures.
For example, Dicang Qing (a type of clay) can be fired into multiple colors. The kiln temperature also affects the breathability of the teapot; typically, those with better breathability are easier to nurture.
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(3) Frequency of tea drinking
This is clear to everyone: the difference between three times a day and once every three days.
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(4) Type of tea
Different types of tea will have different effects on teapot nurturing. There are various opinions online, but personally, Tie Guan Yin, Black Tea, and Pu'er are all suitable for nurturing teapots, just for reference.
I believe the factors determining the effect of teapot nurturing are related to the ones mentioned above. Purple jade and golden sand refer to comparing purple clay to beautiful jade, and the transformation from clay to jade is achieved through nurturing.
When your beloved teapot has been caressed and played with over a long period, finally achieving a patina, the visual enjoyment will fill you with a sense of accomplishment.
(5) Method of formation
Handmade and semi-handmade teapots also differ in terms of breathability. Handmade teapots have their body formed by surrounding the clay strips after being struck.
Semi-handmade teapots have their body shaped after being struck and then further refined using molds. Their densities differ, and naturally, so does their breathability.
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A teapot that has gone through the vicissitudes of time and prolonged use undergoes a qualitative change in its internal structure after being washed with tea.
It radiates not only the luster of the ravages of time but also the essence of accumulated tea over the years.