Well No. 4 in Huanglong Mountain not only had the largest extraction volume among the five wells on the mountain, but also produced high-quality clay, with the Dicong Qing clay being the most renowned. It can be considered the top well for Zisha in the world.

Well No. 4 Dicong Qing

Well No. 4 in Huanglong Mountain achieved a lasting reputation almost single-handedly. Even though it has been sealed now, its fame continues to spread far and wide. Observing the characteristics of Teapots made from the clay extracted from Well No. 4 in Huanglong Mountain, we find the following:

One, the surface of the pot has uneven golden or yellowish sand particles, creating a “chicken eye” effect, which complements the rich and lustrous purple color, highlighting the extraordinary appearance and character of the Dicong Qing Teapot.

Two, this clay has excellent breathability, ranking among the best in purple clays, able to maintain the freshness of Tea for a long time.

Dicong Qing

Dicong Qing is a high-quality ore within purple clays, located at the bottom of the purple clay stratum. Its characteristic feature is that most cross-sections contain gray-green spots, commonly referred to as chicken eyes or cat's eyes. These spots are distributed in varying densities. The size and distribution of these chicken eyes can help identify the origin of the ore and confirm if it is Dicong Qing. As shown in the image below:

The firing temperature for Dicong Qing can be divided into standard and high temperatures. After standard temperature firing, it typically presents a chestnut red color, sometimes described as chocolate-colored. At this point, black spots are usually visible, which some people refer to as a speckled clay phenomenon.

As the temperature increases further, the color changes gradually from chestnut red to purple-red. At a specific high temperature, it turns deep purple, at which point the speckled clay phenomenon disappears.

Dicong Qing teapots have a strong sand texture and excellent breathability. After long-term use and maintenance, they develop a warm and glossy finish, emitting a naturally dark luster. They are simple yet elegant, representing the best qualities of zisha clay.

Currently, the mining of ore has been protected and no longer takes place, and the existing reserves from previous extractions are dwindling. Therefore, as an outstanding category within purple clays, the remaining quantity is limited, but it is by no means extinct.

The Dicong Qing clay from Well No. 4 in Huanglong Mountain is the most precious (Well No. 4 is no longer mined), showing faint, blurred black shadows (black iron content) after firing, and golden sand particles that sparkle like stars in the night sky.

Its quality is highly praised by potters through the ages and is the favorite clay of the late Master Gu Jingzhou. It is also the material used in many classic and famous works over the centuries.

Characteristics of Dicong Qing Clay:

Dicong Qing is a high-quality ore within purple clays, located at the bottom of the stratum. It has fine and pure clay, resulting in a firm, smooth, and polished texture after firing, presenting a brown color. The finished product has a natural and simple texture, is dignified and restrained, warm and elegant, and changes quickly with use and maintenance. After being maintained, the warmth and glossiness become even richer and fuller, and the tea flavor becomes more refined and elegant over time.

Source: Zisha Teapot Encyclopedia, information shared for educational purposes. If there are any copyright issues, please contact us for removal.