Gong Zhu (贡珠) Di Cao Qing Yixing Teapot

Gong Zhu Di Cao Qing Teapot | Yixing Zisha
贡珠 底槽清 | 宜兴紫砂

Artist:    Wu Hong Fang, ranked "Arts & Crafts Master"
Clay:    Di Cao Qing
Capacity:    100ml
Made in artist's studio in the old Factory 1 grounds, Dingshan, Yixing

ABOUT THE TEAPOT

A rare micro-capacity piece from Master Wu Hong Fang, crafted in a rich Di Cao Qing clay. The name translates as "Tribute Pearl".

This piece is inspired closely by very classical Qing-era designs, particularly those in the school of small-volume gongfu-style pieces typically made in Zhuni. Here, however, Master Wu has selected a lavish Di Cao Qing clay to give the piece more austerity and depth, highlighting instead the perfect poise of the form (as the picture in silhouette shows). Such small pieces are challenging to design well, but here Master Wu has balanced perfectly the lines of the upturned, flared spout and the strong handle, in counterpoint to the fullness of the body. Despite this presence, it may be almost surprising to see the actual size of the tiny pot, which fits snugly in an enclosed palm!

A technical marvel from Master Wu and is a showcase of her recent progression in creating highly refined small pieces (which we have for years been requesting her to do more of).

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.