One-of-a-kind, exquisite Yixing purple clay teapots like this one are both functional and rare works of art.
Look at this unique, handmade design. The grip on the lid is a mandarin duck’s head. Its black eyeballs shine in the light. The potter added lifelike texture by carving fine lines and painting elegant patterns to show his feathers.
And the lid itself fits perfectly onto the mouth of your wide-bodied pot. Because the lid sits flush on top, all the steam, aroma, and flavor of your tea is trapped inside for a perfect brew.
Also notice the large handle. It feels soft in your hand, and the broad curve makes a perfect ring, so it is very easy to grip.
The Yixing mandarin duck teapot
From the handle, run your fingers across the top of the pot and down to the spout. See how the spout, duck’s head and handle are perfectly aligned with one another? This guarantees a straight, smooth pour every time.
Cultural note: Once two mandarin ducks fall in love, they will stay together for life. The Chinese see them as a symbol of devoted love. Some say Yixing clay is also a symbol of true love. Laymen and emperors alike have cherished teapots made of Yixing purple clay for centuries. Emperor Qianlong had quite the collection, and carved his calligraphy on them to express his admiration.
You must have noticed the appealing luster of this pot. This shows it is made of pure Yixing purple clay, which has been celebrated as one of the best materials for making teapots.
This clay is porous, so your tea gets absorbed and nourishes your teapot every time. The wonderful clay can even take in oils from your hands as you touch it, so the outer surface becomes even more beautiful and lustrous.
The Yixing mandarin duck teapot
But this precious clay is in danger of running out nowadays, so much so that the Chinese government has taken steps to protect it.
Get the most out of your tea, and share your knowledge of an ancient Chinese tradition with friends!
Guarantees: All of our tea sets are the works of master potters who perfected their techniques through years of tradition and training. We are proud to guarantee the quality of your tea set.
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