Many Yixing enthusiasts are newcomers to the world of purple clay, and the journey of appreciating and collecting Teapots can be long and challenging, with many unsure of where to start when it comes to buying and enjoying teapots.

So, how can one avoid being misled and quickly improve their appreciation skills? Here are three points for your consideration:

First: View Many Traditional Shapes

Yixing Teapots have a rich history and tradition. Classic shapes never go out of style, and viewing traditional forms helps cultivate a basic sense of aesthetics. Additionally, this practice sharpens your eye for detail.

▲ Shi Piao (Stone Spout) – Traditional Shape

Newcomers should start by studying traditional shapes and comparing them to works by famous artists from past generations. Pay attention to the differences in details like the spout and handle, as well as changes in shape. After seeing many traditional shapes, you will gain valuable insights.

▲ Edited by Gu Jingzhou: Treasures of Yixing Purple Clay

With this approach, when you first see a traditional piece, you will instinctively recognize whether its proportions are harmonious and its structure is correct. When purchasing a Teapot, you can also compare it to works by renowned artists to avoid buying odd or subpar pieces. Getting started correctly is crucial.

A few recommended books on Yixing clay:

“The Art of Purple Clay” by Xu Xiutang

“Treasures of Yixing Purple Clay” edited by Gu Jingzhou

“Zi Yin Xi Sheng” by Zhao Yue and Xu Zhen

Second: Acquire a High-Quality Teapot

This doesn't necessarily mean an exorbitantly priced teapot, but it should be within a certain price range. Expensive teapots aren't always the best, but truly good teapots are never cheap.

▲ Jingzhou Shi Piao from Well No. 4

A high-quality teapot enhances your discernment. With a genuinely good teapot, you can appreciate the meticulous craftsmanship and superior clay. You'll discover that the changes that occur after a few infusions aren't just a myth, and the so-called “essence” of a teapot is not elusive.

▲ Red Skin Dragon – Ancient Style

If you choose a low-quality teapot, you won't gain much insight and might even diminish your ability to appreciate fine teapots. A good teapot nurtures its owner; handling it gently and thoughtfully over time naturally cultivates a refined demeanor. Good teapots are made with care and encourage interaction, their beautiful shapes inspire affection, and they evoke positive emotions, bringing joy to their owners. Holding a fine teapot, feeling its roundness or squareness, its intricate designs and myriad variations, will naturally elevate your appreciation skills over time.

Third: Visit Dingshan

This is the most direct method. While books offer countless explanations, nothing compares to seeing things firsthand. Consider it a trip. Yixing is a picturesque town in southern Jiangsu with a deep cultural heritage. Take a stroll around Dingshan, visit Huanglong Mountain, chat with teapot makers, and enjoy Tea with shop owners. Many questions will naturally be answered.

▲ Huanglong Mountain Entrance

Compared to the confusion of browsing, learning, and buying online, visiting Dingshan is a delightful experience and the fastest way to improve your skills.

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