"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, ranked "Arts & Crafts Master"
Clay: Di Cao Qing
Capacity: 250ml
Made in artist's studio in the old Factory 1 grounds, Dingshan, Yixing
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.
CARE OF YOUR ZISHA:
1. To clean your new teapot, first rinse well inside and out with lukewarm water. Then fill with hot water just off the boil, steep for 30s and pour out. Repeat the hot water rinse 2-3 times as needed.
2. Brew your favorite tea!
3. After the session, empty the spent leaf and rinse out well with lukewarm water. Dry the exterior gently with a soft cloth if needed to remove any stains that remain.
4. Air dry in a well-ventilated are with the lid removed.
other tips:
- Never use detergent or any other cleaning agent on Zisha!
- Our Zisha is to quality; boiling with tea leaves (or tofu) before use is not needed.
- Your teapot will develop a patina through regular use and care. Avoid pouring tea over the exterior of the pot to hasten the process, this will quickly result in a “dirty” looking pot.
