Introduction of Yixing teapot
Posted on October 07, 2014
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Yixing teapots are made from clay produced in the region of the town of Yixing in the eastern Chinese province of Jiangsu.
Yixing teapot from Zen Tea
Archaeological excavations reveal that as early as the Song Dynasty (10th century) potters near Yixing were using local "zisha" clay to make utensils that could have functioned as teapots. The late Ming Dynasty author Zhou Gaoqi stated that during the reign of the Zhengde Emperor (1502–1521) a monk from Jinsha Temple (Golden Sand Temple) in Yixing handcrafted a fine quality teapot from local clay. Such fine quality teapots soon became popular with the scholarly class, and the fame of Yixing teapots began to spread.
With use, Yixing teapots develop a rich patina enhancing the taste, color, and aroma of fine tea. The more you use your teapot, the better it gets. The teapot's appearance will change with age and use; its surface will become more glossy and the color will intensify.
Serious tea drinkers use one teapot for only one type of tea in order not to mix-up with the tea aroma in that teapot. Normal tea drinkers may find using two or three Yixing teapots sufficient, one for green tea, second one for Oolong tea and a third one for black tea.
This teapot is ideal for the Gongfu style of brewing. The style encompasses several tea utensils, including a small teapot, glass pitcher, tea tray, and small cups. The essence of the Gongfu style is to enjoy tea in a ceremonial setting where the tea-preparer's hospitality is highlighted. The tea is prepared in small Yixing teapot and poured into a small pitcher, then into individual cups.
HOW TO BREW USING YIXING TEAPOT
Yixing teapot Xishi
To pre-heat the pot for tea drinking, first fill with hot water and drain. Place one teaspoon of loose tea (enough for two or three refills) into the pre-heated pot, then fill with hot water. Let it steep for about 1~3 minute and enjoy. The quality of your tea infusions and the beauty of your teapot will only increase with use.
HOW TO CARE YIXING TEAPOT
General Yixing care
Nurturing Yixing teapot
Proper care for your teaware will ensure longevity. Do not use any abrasive materials, heavy perfumed soap or bleach in cleaning your teapot. Simply rinse after each use with boiling water. Tilt the lid open or place open on a rack to air dry. When the clay is adequately seasoned, a soft, clean towel can be used to polish the outside of the teapot.
Tea stains may build up on your teapot after many used, don't worry about getting it off, collectors are always looking for tea stains as this is one of the characteristics required for a good old and antique teapot.
Yixing teapot from Zen Tea
Archaeological excavations reveal that as early as the Song Dynasty (10th century) potters near Yixing were using local "zisha" clay to make utensils that could have functioned as teapots. The late Ming Dynasty author Zhou Gaoqi stated that during the reign of the Zhengde Emperor (1502–1521) a monk from Jinsha Temple (Golden Sand Temple) in Yixing handcrafted a fine quality teapot from local clay. Such fine quality teapots soon became popular with the scholarly class, and the fame of Yixing teapots began to spread.
With use, Yixing teapots develop a rich patina enhancing the taste, color, and aroma of fine tea. The more you use your teapot, the better it gets. The teapot's appearance will change with age and use; its surface will become more glossy and the color will intensify.
Serious tea drinkers use one teapot for only one type of tea in order not to mix-up with the tea aroma in that teapot. Normal tea drinkers may find using two or three Yixing teapots sufficient, one for green tea, second one for Oolong tea and a third one for black tea.
This teapot is ideal for the Gongfu style of brewing. The style encompasses several tea utensils, including a small teapot, glass pitcher, tea tray, and small cups. The essence of the Gongfu style is to enjoy tea in a ceremonial setting where the tea-preparer's hospitality is highlighted. The tea is prepared in small Yixing teapot and poured into a small pitcher, then into individual cups.
HOW TO BREW USING YIXING TEAPOT
Yixing teapot Xishi
To pre-heat the pot for tea drinking, first fill with hot water and drain. Place one teaspoon of loose tea (enough for two or three refills) into the pre-heated pot, then fill with hot water. Let it steep for about 1~3 minute and enjoy. The quality of your tea infusions and the beauty of your teapot will only increase with use.
HOW TO CARE YIXING TEAPOT
General Yixing care
Nurturing Yixing teapot
Proper care for your teaware will ensure longevity. Do not use any abrasive materials, heavy perfumed soap or bleach in cleaning your teapot. Simply rinse after each use with boiling water. Tilt the lid open or place open on a rack to air dry. When the clay is adequately seasoned, a soft, clean towel can be used to polish the outside of the teapot.
Tea stains may build up on your teapot after many used, don't worry about getting it off, collectors are always looking for tea stains as this is one of the characteristics required for a good old and antique teapot.
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