Antique Enameled Yixing Stoneware Teapot, China (1152A-PAR)

Description

Yixing stoneware pottery items are among the most popular of all Asian ceramics. The clay used for the pottery comes from an area near Yixing city and has been used to make teaware and Pouring-Vessels since the Ming Dynasty. When fired, the clay becomes very insulating allowing it to retain heat, and since it is naturally porous it can absorb oils released during brewing which results in the “seasoning” of the pot’s interior that improves the flavor with continual use. Chinese tea connoisseurs consider Yixing teapots the best vessel for brewing tea and use different teapots for each kind of tea. Potters use the unique purple and red clay to hand craft teaware and Small-Teapots, made for single servings which enables faster, better and more economical brewing recognized by their unique handle and spout design. Exported to Europe starting in the 17th century, where they still retain their popularity, it was not until the 18th century that they were used at home and artisans began to make them in a variety of shapes and sizes.  Yixing pieces are mostly unglazed but sometimes are coated or decorated with applied brightly colored enamel glaze. Unlike Western teaware, only water is used to wash a Yixing pot. However, we strongly recommend using functional-and-utilitarian antique pieces for decorative and collecting purposes only and not for serving beverages. This teapot is part of the VA Antique-Chinese-Ceramics-and-Pottery Collection.