Illustrated Catalog of Chinese Teapot Treasures

Author: Qiao Qianli, Compiler
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2002-05-01
Features: The Yixing teapots collected in this book are treasured pieces among tea pots. Yixing clay belongs to the kaolinite-quartz-mica type, containing a significant amount of chemical elements such as iron oxide. The tea pots made from this clay have a dual porous structure—one formed within the aggregates of chemical elements and another formed around them. It is this unique chemical structure that gives Yixing teapots excellent permeability, enabling them to preserve the color, aroma, and flavor of tea for extended periods. A historical overview of Yixing teapots reveals that they were primarily practical during the Ming Dynasty, while the Qing Dynasty favored intricate and elegant designs. Jade teapots and porcelain teapots have also undergone a similar developmental process, and their design influences have inspired Yixing teapots. Stone teapots are a relatively new variety. With China's abundant stone resources, especially those suitable for teapot-making, their popularity is bound to rise, making them another type of precious tea pot following Yixing. This book compiles a collection of Yixing, porcelain, and jade teapots from various eras, featuring an exceptional number of illustrations that no tea culture book published in recent years can match. It also includes information on the transaction prices of teapots from around the world and expert-written articles on identifying counterfeit pieces, appended to the relevant chapters. It is hoped that this book will serve as a reference for tea art enthusiasts, tea pot appreciation experts, and collectors.