Artisan-Crafted Yixing Zisha Teapot: Master Yao Huajun’s Shang Xian Qiao with Golden Jiangpo Clay

2025-07-12 Zisha Teapot Guide Categroy：201-350cc Views：18

$557.14Handmade Yixing teapot by Master Yao Huajun, using golden jiangpo clay. 270cc capacity with carvings by Lu Hao. Premium collectible at ¥3900.

Yixing Zisha Teapot by Master Yao Huajun | Shang Xian Qiao 1

The purple clay teapot is one of the representative artifacts of traditional Chinese craftsmanship. This particular teapot was created by senior artisan Yao Huajun, who studied pottery-making techniques for years under Yang Qinfang, a master of Jiangsu Province's arts and crafts. Inheriting his mentor's solid foundational skills and innovative spirit, Yao's zisha teapots blend traditional charm with modern aesthetic sensibilities.

Yixing Zisha Teapot by Master Yao Huajun | Shang Xian Qiao 2

Named "New Bridge", this Yixing teapot draws inspiration from stone arch bridges commonly seen in Jiangnan water towns, featuring smooth and flowing lines. The slightly raised lid mimics the curved bridge surface, while the handle and spout create harmonious curves that balance strength and elegance. The granular texture of natural clay remains perceptible to touch, yet all edges are polished smooth for comfortable handling.

Yixing Zisha Teapot by Master Yao Huajun | Shang Xian Qiao 3

Crafted from Jinjiangpo clay sourced from special mineral strata in Yixing's Huanglong Mountain, this handmade Yixing zisha teapot develops reddish-brown tones with golden speckles after firing. The clay's exceptional breathability makes it ideal for brewing fermented teas like pu'er or black tea, effectively preserving tea aromas while filtering impurities. With prolonged use, the surface gradually acquires a warmer patina.

Yixing Zisha Teapot by Master Yao Huajun | Shang Xian Qiao 4

The 270ml capacity of this Chinese zisha teapot suits both solitary tea sessions and small gatherings. Its balanced weight distribution allows easy single-handed handling even when filled. The spout delivers smooth water flow with precise cutoff, while the tightly fitted lid remains secure even when inverted - testaments to superior craftsmanship.

Yixing Zisha Teapot by Master Yao Huajun | Shang Xian Qiao 5

National-level artisan Lu Hao enhanced the teapot with carved depictions of Jiangnan garden scenery: bamboo shoots extending behind rockeries and lakeside stones. These concise yet vivid engravings maintain classical Chinese painting charm while adapting to the teapot's three-dimensional form. The precisely calibrated carving depth preserves wall thickness while creating delicate tactile textures.

Yixing Zisha Teapot by Master Yao Huajun | Shang Xian Qiao 6

Proper maintenance begins with soaking the new purple clay teapot set in tea for 24 hours to saturate the clay. Regular care involves gentle wiping with tea cloths (no detergents) and thorough drying after each use. Over time, the accumulated tea patina inside and out will enhance brewing flavors.

Yixing Zisha Teapot by Master Yao Huajun | Shang Xian Qiao 7

This Yixing purple clay teapot embodies multifaceted dedication - from material selection to ergonomic design, from functional practicality to artistic decoration. Yao Huajun's synthesis of traditional techniques and modern innovation, combined with Lu Hao's cultural engravings, transforms functional ware into collectible art.

Yixing Zisha Teapot by Master Yao Huajun | Shang Xian Qiao 8

For newcomers to Chinese Yixing teapots, details like observing the water arc during pouring or listening to lid friction sounds offer sensory discoveries. The gradual color transformation during daily use reveals time's aesthetic alchemy, while each brewing session becomes silent dialogue between user and vessel.

Yixing Zisha Teapot by Master Yao Huajun | Shang Xian Qiao 9