Masterpiece Yixing Teapot: Lotus & Fish Design in 1980s Tianqing Clay

2025-10-15 Zisha Teapot Guide Categroy：under 200cc Views：67

$385.71Handmade Yixing teapot featuring lotus-fish design, rare 1980s Tianqing clay. A timeless collectible by master artisan Yang Peng.

Vintage Yixing Zisha Teapot | Handcrafted Tianqing Clay Artisan Pot 1

This handmade Yixing zisha teapot is a classic creation by Master Yang Peng, named "Fully Handmade Union of Joy." With a 200ml capacity, it's particularly suitable for personal use among small teapots. The body is crafted from vintage Tianqing clay preserved since the 1980s, a material now nearly extinct, making each gram more precious than gold.

Vintage Yixing Zisha Teapot | Handcrafted Tianqing Clay Artisan Pot 2

Two special techniques were employed in its creation. The thumb relief technique allowed Master Yang to press three-dimensional lotus patterns into moist clay with his fingers. Clay painting with differently colored zisha materials creates layered lotus leaves. When rotating the pot, three fish appear swimming among leaves, vividly illustrating the classical verse "fish frolicking among lotus leaves." These details require months of meticulous work, where excessive force could ruin the entire piece.

Vintage Yixing Zisha Teapot | Handcrafted Tianqing Clay Artisan Pot 3

The Tianqing clay deserves special attention. Originating from Dashuitan mining area in Dingshan Town, its pale blue hue resembles post-rain skies. Mining ceased in the 1980s, with only veteran artisans preserving original materials. Master Yang's remaining Tianqing clay can only produce 2-3 more teapots, making each piece irreplicable.

Vintage Yixing Zisha Teapot | Handcrafted Tianqing Clay Artisan Pot 4

The lid features thoughtful design - a lotus bud knob contrasts with blooming lotus decorations. When pouring tea, liquid flows naturally from the lotus heart like morning dew. The short, rounded spout prevents dripping, making it user-friendly even for beginners.

Vintage Yixing Zisha Teapot | Handcrafted Tianqing Clay Artisan Pot 5

Beyond aesthetics, this Yixing teapot offers functionality. Tianqing clay naturally aged over four decades stabilizes mineral content, preserving tea's original aroma. The 3mm wall thickness maintains heat without scalding hands. It particularly enhances oolong and pu'er tea textures.

Vintage Yixing Zisha Teapot | Handcrafted Tianqing Clay Artisan Pot 6

As collectible art, three factors elevate its value: rare Dashuitan Tianqing clay (now depleted), complex craftsmanship requiring decade-long expertise, and Master Yang's 35-year career producing only 5-6 pieces annually. Modern machine-made teapots dominate the market, making such traditional handmade specimens increasingly rare.

Vintage Yixing Zisha Teapot | Handcrafted Tianqing Clay Artisan Pot 7

Proper maintenance involves rinsing with water (no detergents) and regular tea-brewing to develop patina. For long-term storage, use ventilated wooden boxes. With proper care, the surface will gradually transform from pale blue to deep slate gray.

Vintage Yixing Zisha Teapot | Handcrafted Tianqing Clay Artisan Pot 8

For tea enthusiasts, this purple clay teapot serves both as practical tool and inheritable artwork, blending traditional Chinese painting, ceramic craftsmanship, and tea ceremony philosophy. From clay preparation to firing, seventy-two precise steps are required - any mistake nullifies all effort. Fewer than twenty artisans preserve these techniques, making each teapot a vessel of vanishing heritage.

The 200ml capacity (ideal for 2-3 people) and 280g weight ensure comfortable handling. The ear-shaped handle provides secure grip when inserting index finger. The base bears Master Yang's handwritten seal - crucial authentication mark. As veteran craftsmen retire, such masterpieces may eventually become museum exhibits.