Since the Ming Dynasty, and flourishing during the Qing Dynasty, Yixing clay Teapots have undergone several hundred years of development, resulting in countless variations of shapes. Among them, the most enduringly attractive are those classic designs. These classic styles have been popular among potters through the ages, who have continued to create new versions based on these traditional forms.

Why are classically shaped Yixing clay teapots so alluring?

The classic shapes that have survived to this day have withstood the test of time, enduring the aesthetic scrutiny of generations of Teapot enthusiasts and ultimately becoming classics.

To appreciate the beauty of a Yixing clay teapot, the first step is to understand its shape. How can one discern the quality of a teapot's shape? One must learn to appreciate the superior works of renowned potters from past generations, and develop an appreciation based on personal preference.

“Round teapots” emphasize “roundness, stability, uniformity, and correctness.” There should be subtle changes within the roundness, and the size, curvature, and proportion of the pot body and lines should be harmonious. Teapots like the Shibi (Stone Ladle), Xishi (Beauty of Xi), Fagǔ (Imitation Drum), Duóqiú (Piled Spheres), Jǐnglán (Well Parapet), Dézhōng (Virtuous Bell), and Qínquán (Qin Weight) are all internationally renowned masterpieces.

Shibi (Stone Ladle)

This is a classic style that has been produced by many masters over the generations, each with their own unique interpretation. Variations include the Zǐyě Shibi, Jǐngzhōu Shibi, and Hàn táng Shibi. Despite slight differences in appearance, the triangular shape, three-legged base, flat lid, and arched knob are essential elements of the Shibi. This design has remained popular for centuries and continues to be highly regarded.

The essence of the Shibi lies in its forceful presence, which requires balancing the proportions of the triangular shapes formed by the various lines of the pot, including the body, spout, handle, and knob. Achieving the optimal proportions ensures that the distinctive strength and spirit of the Shibi are highlighted.

Xishi (Beauty of Xi)

The Xishi teapot was originally created by Xu Youquan during the Wanli period (1573–1620 AD). He was a disciple of Shídàbīn. The shape of the teapot is said to resemble the full breasts of the legendary beauty Xi Shi.

This teapot has a shape reminiscent of a full breast, with the knob resembling a nipple, a short and slightly thick spout, and a handle in the form of an inverted ear. A cut-off lid is used. Perhaps due to the perceived indecency of calling it the “Xi Shi Breast Teapot,” it was later renamed simply “Xishi” or “Inverted Handle Xishi.”

Jǐnglán (Well Parapet)

The Jǐnglán teapot is one of the traditional styles, named after well parapets. In ancient times, wells were often surrounded by parapets, some even had covers, tops, and pavilions, which not only protected the wells but also beautified the surroundings. There are variations such as high, low, and square (hexagonal, octagonal) Jǐnglán teapots, but the overall form remains consistent. Subtle changes can be seen in details such as the knob, spout, handle, and lid, revealing historical influences.

The simple form of the Jǐnglán teapot leaves much room for creativity, and decorative techniques used on it are varied, incorporating poetry, calligraphy, painting, and seals.

The spout of the Jǐnglán teapot is typically a curved spout, but there are also straight, short spouts. The spout can be long like a whale's tail or short like an eagle's beak, both curved and straight are subtly beautiful. This style is attributed to Mǎnshíbā (Eighteen Styles).

It breaks away from the complex, old-fashioned, and narrow themes of the time, creating simple, lively, and novel teapot styles that captivate. This has won the admiration of scholars and has withstood the test of time, becoming a traditional classic in Yixing clay teapot designs. Later craftsmen drew much inspiration from the Jǐnglán teapot.

Duóqiú (Piled Spheres)

A typical geometric traditional round teapot style, and one of the finest representatives of Yixing clay teapots. Its basic shape consists of a knob, lid, and body, formed by three spheres of different sizes arranged in ascending order, with the large sphere forming the body and the small sphere the lid, appearing as if a small sphere is piled on top of a large sphere, hence the name Duóqiú teapot.

In the Duóqiú teapot, a double line is sculpted on the lid rim and mouth rim, with the upper line thicker than the lower one. This combination of a thicker upper line and a thinner lower line is called “heaven pressing earth” or “civilian and military lines,” also known as “parent-child lines.” The Duóqiú teapot made by Chéng Shòuzhēn in the Republican era is considered a masterpiece of this style.

Fagǔ (Imitation Drum)

The Fagǔ teapot is often the first teapot that modern apprentices learn to make.

The body is flattened, the belly is drum-like, the neck is high, and the lid is smooth. The lid fits tightly against the rim, forming a complete circular line. The knob is sturdy, and the arched knob has a powerful presence. The handle rises evenly and gracefully, with some variations having a downward curve at the bottom, adding a sense of dynamism. The overall structure is well-proportioned and balanced, with a smooth and fluid appearance.

Dézhōng (Virtuous Bell)

A typical traditional teapot style, initially created by Sháo Dàhéng during the Qing Dynasty. The Dézhōng teapot is another fine piece in the light and simple style, representing the work of Sháo Dàhéng.

The shape is dignified and well-balanced, with harmonious proportions, strict structure, and the technical skills employed reach the pinnacle of traditional Yixing clay teapot craftsmanship.

The feel of the teapot in the hand is excellent, and it is comfortable to touch. The design is simple and unadorned, free from the ornate style prevalent during the Qing imperial court period.

Qínquán (Qin Weight)

After the Qin Dynasty unified the six states, they standardized measures and weights. “Quán” refers to the weight used on a scale. The Qínquán teapot imitates this shape. It is unknown who first created the Qínquán teapot. However, in the late Qing Dynasty, Mei Yǒuzhú collaborated with Yùnshí, echoing the legendary partnership between Chen Hóngshòu and Yáng Pénnián. The inscriptions on the teapot are on par with those of Mànshēng, vibrant and spirited. “Selling spring Tea from a boat in Taoist retreats, people come with scales in hand.” Selling tea in Taoist retreats, using the teapot as a scale. This is full of imaginative imagery and a carefree spirit.

The Qínquán teapot exudes dignity and integrity. The plain surface is rustic yet evokes myriad images, and Grandmaster Gù Jǐngzhōu has elevated the Qínquán to the pinnacle of simplicity.

Měrénjiān