[Not suitable in dishwasher and microwave]
[Not suitable in dishwasher and microwave]
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Early 1980s Standard Shuiping | Nian Gao Clay | 80ml
“Jingxi Hui Mengchen Zhi” 6-character seal baseThis is a classic “Shuiping” (水平壺) teapot from the early 1980s, crafted using the highly prized Nian Gao Tu (年糕土), also known as "Rice Cake Clay" for its dense, slightly sticky texture during forming, and its fine, soft-grained finish after firing.
The pot carries a six-character base seal reading “荊溪惠孟臣製” (Jingxi Hui Mengchen Zhi), rather than the more common “中國宜興” (China Yixing) mark. This variation was specifically adopted in teapots made for the Taiwan market during the early post-martial-law years. At the time, including the word “China” on cultural goods could trigger import sensitivities in Taiwan due to cross-strait political tensions, so many Yixing teapots destined for Taiwan used alternate historical marks. “Jingxi Hui Mengchen Zhi” honors the legendary Qing dynasty teapot maker Hui Mengchen and aligns with traditional naming conventions without direct reference to the PRC.
About Nian Gao Clay (年糕土)
Nian Gao Tu is a specific blend of purple clay and finer-grained sedimentary material with excellent porosity and rich mineral content. The fired clay has a warm, soft matte appearance and retains just enough breathability to interact with the tea's oils and aromatics while maintaining structural density.
Its tea-brewing character is suitable for a wide-range of tea, for example:
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High fragrance tea (e.g. Tieguanyin, Wuyi yancha): enhances roast and sweetness
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Aged white teas (Shoumei, aged Bai Mu Dan): rounds off coarseness and deepens mouthfeel
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High-mountain black teas (like Sun Moon Lake or Ruby 18): brings out body and softens sharp tannins
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Shou Pu’er: makes the liquor smoother and less earthy
Compared to zhuni or hongni, Nian Gao clay pots offer a gentler extraction and are well-suited for teas you wish to round out or coax into balance. Over time, with regular use, the pot develops a deep internal patina that can elevate the tea's smoothness and subtle notes.
If you're looking for a teapot that bridges functionality and quiet historical intrigue, this early-80s Shuiping pot is a beautiful and practical companion.
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Early 1980s Standard Shuiping | Nian Gao Clay | 80ml
“Jingxi Hui Mengchen Zhi” 6-character seal base
This is a classic “Shuiping” (水平壺) teapot from the early 1980s, crafted using the highly prized Nian Gao Tu (年糕土), also known as "Rice Cake Clay" for its dense, slightly sticky texture during forming, and its fine, soft-grained finish after firing.
The pot carries a six-character base seal reading “荊溪惠孟臣製” (Jingxi Hui Mengchen Zhi), rather than the more common “中國宜興” (China Yixing) mark. This variation was specifically adopted in teapots made for the Taiwan market during the early post-martial-law years. At the time, including the word “China” on cultural goods could trigger import sensitivities in Taiwan due to cross-strait political tensions, so many Yixing teapots destined for Taiwan used alternate historical marks. “Jingxi Hui Mengchen Zhi” honors the legendary Qing dynasty teapot maker Hui Mengchen and aligns with traditional naming conventions without direct reference to the PRC.
About Nian Gao Clay (年糕土)
Nian Gao Tu is a specific blend of purple clay and finer-grained sedimentary material with excellent porosity and rich mineral content. The fired clay has a warm, soft matte appearance and retains just enough breathability to interact with the tea's oils and aromatics while maintaining structural density.
Its tea-brewing character is suitable for a wide-range of tea, for example:
-
High fragrance tea (e.g. Tieguanyin, Wuyi yancha): enhances roast and sweetness
-
Aged white teas (Shoumei, aged Bai Mu Dan): rounds off coarseness and deepens mouthfeel
-
High-mountain black teas (like Sun Moon Lake or Ruby 18): brings out body and softens sharp tannins
-
Shou Pu’er: makes the liquor smoother and less earthy
Compared to zhuni or hongni, Nian Gao clay pots offer a gentler extraction and are well-suited for teas you wish to round out or coax into balance. Over time, with regular use, the pot develops a deep internal patina that can elevate the tea's smoothness and subtle notes.
If you're looking for a teapot that bridges functionality and quiet historical intrigue, this early-80s Shuiping pot is a beautiful and practical companion.