"Brahma's Lotus" (Fan Lian) Di Cao Qing Teapot | Yixing Zisha 梵莲 底槽清泥 | 宜兴紫砂
Artist: Wu Hong Fang, National Master of Arts & Crafts Clay: Di Cao Qing Capacity: 250ml Made in artist's studio in the old Factory 1 grounds, Dingshan, Yixing Unique Lot Number: 4038
ABOUT THE TEAPOT This is an original design from Master Wu Hong Fang, incorporating spiritual elements on a classical Yixing design foundation.
The design takes inspiration from the traditional Xi Shi (西施) shape with its rubicund body and pert spout. Here, however, the form is enveloped in a base of sublime lotus leaves all around, topped with a delicately reclining lotus pod.
Of particular note is the balance of execution here -- despite its apparent simplicity, the form of the body is flowing and lithe. The lotus leaves are alive and supple, uplifting the base and giving it airiness, without taking away from its stability. The crowning glory is the immaculately crafted lotus pod atop the lid -- the precision of texture and detail here is testament to Master Wu's inimitable skill. A subtle, but impressive show of talent.
The creator of this piece is Master Wu Hong Fang, a senior Zisha artist who started her career as Zisha apprentice in factory 1 in the 80s. She works wonders with her signature clays of Zini, Di Cao Qing and Jiang Po Ni, each piece retaining the glazed iron color and stone-textured finish.
