Incense burner-shaped, three-footed teapot with intricate, well-executed ruyi designs. Made of very smooth zisha in the early 1990s. New and unused.

The combination of this pot’s wide lid opening and yellow color suggest it would be great as a dedicated pot for baozhong tea. Practical features include a large lid knob (easy to hold) and a well-constructed internal strainer. Fit and finish is very good, with a solid pour and about 80% flow control via the air hole regardless of lid position. The sanded duanni (yellow clay) has the suggestion of coarse texture, but is smooth to the touch. Every collection should have at least one pot in this comparatively uncommon material. Note that this is a fairly small teapot at 130ml, suitable for a 1-2 person service.

This teapot has the same ownership history as 5084, but dates to the 1970s. It currently is in like-new condition. Smooth zisha clay of this type will quickly become more shiny with regular use and handling. This simply adorned, traditional shape is very practical: the large lid facilitates brewing tea with large dry leaves (such as baozhong or baihao) that may not fit without breaking through smaller openings.

In two private collections since the 1960s, this teapot is a fine example of the zhuni clay from Yixing. Common at that time, clay of this quality is no longer available to use for production teapots. A close look at the orange-peel textured clay will reveal a few flecks of yellow sand. Heavy in the hand with an accurate pour, it will be a pleasure to use. This pot was cleaned prior to acquisition by the most recent owner and only lightly used. Consequently, it is in like-new condition.