The Yixing purple clay (purple clay Pottery making technique) has been successfully included in the national list of intangible cultural heritage thanks to its unique material and distinctive craftsmanship.

Known for “brewing Tea without altering its original flavor, and after long use, emitting a lustrous glow that can be appreciated upon handling,” the purple clay Teapot has earned the accolade of being “the foremost among all tea wares.” However, assessing Teapots is not an easy task. The purple clay market is turbulent and fraught with confusion. Connoisseurs need to take a calm approach to appreciate, understand, and recognize the teapots.

Many enthusiasts have been misled by the market, pursuing intangible qualities and ultimately overlooking the artistic value of the teapot itself. On this journey of purple clay, we hope that enthusiasts can rationally appreciate and understand purple clay teapots. Here are some simple points that may help:

First, look at the clay: In theory, it should be both original ore and pure. However, original ore does not necessarily mean good clay; as long as the clay is pure and of high quality, it is sufficient. Although clay comprises only a tiny percentage of a teapot, it plays a crucial role in the overall piece.

Second, look at the shape: The expression of form is a way for the creator to convey their thoughts. The key is to evaluate the finished product's refinement, vitality, spirit, and charm, which should provide a beautiful visual experience.

Third, look at the craftsmanship: This refers to the precision of making the teapot. Without good skill to complete the creation, even a well-designed shape cannot fully express its refinement, vitality, spirit, and charm.

Beyond the material, shape, and craftsmanship, there is also the conceptual and spiritual dimension of the design. Designing a form requires not only hard work but also the designer's own cultural background, aesthetic cultivation, shaping experience, individual thinking, and a high level of comprehensive knowledge.

The originality of a teapot is also important—it represents a new creation breaking away from convention. Getting a truly original new work recognized by the market is no easy feat. Originality does not simply mean tweaking an old model; thus, there are few people who can genuinely create with original thought. Therefore, designing a purple clay teapot is challenging, and designing an outstanding one is even more so.

In summary, when appreciating a purple clay teapot, one should consider its texture, shape, fine craftsmanship, and the thoughts of the creator. Any artistic work, besides having a good design concept, must also be executed with high-quality materials and superb craftsmanship. At the same time, when people appreciate a work, their psychological cognition and personal aesthetic standards also play a significant role.

Purple clay teapots emphasize the combination of practicality and artistry. Enthusiasts should choose according to their needs. If they wish to invest in pure art pieces, they should approach it rationally and delve deeply into the culture of purple clay.