Hu Wenbo Fully Handmade Dezhong Teapot, Qinghui Duanni (2023, 170ml)
This Dezhong (德鐘) teapot was fully handmade in Yixing in 2023 by contemporary potter Hu Wenbo (胡文博), a student of Chu Wenfeng (儲文峰). Among artists from the same lineage, Hu is particularly noted for the precision and refinement of his workmanship, especially in the clean construction and finishing of his vessels.
The teapot is made from Qinghui Duanni (青灰段泥), a subdued grey-brown duanni clay with a fine granular texture and understated character. Rather than drawing attention through bright colour, the clay suits the restrained geometry of the Dezhong form particularly well, allowing the proportions, surface and workmanship of the pot to take centre stage.
The Dezhong is a deceptively demanding form. Its cylindrical body is defined by a pronounced transition between the upright wall and the sloping shoulder, and any unevenness in the construction is immediately visible. On this piece, the crisp, continuous line around the shoulder and body is particularly striking, reflecting the high degree of control required in fully handmade slab construction. The broad lid, short cylindrical knob and rounded handle are kept deliberately simple, giving the pot a quiet but substantial presence.
The body carries the inscription “Qing Shang” (清賞), meaning “pure appreciation” or “refined enjoyment.” The opposite side is engraved with a still-life composition of flowers, vessels and fruit, imagery traditionally associated with the pleasures of scholarly appreciation and collecting. The base is decorated with a lively shrimp motif, adding a more playful touch to an otherwise restrained piece.
At approximately 220ml, the pot is generously sized for shared tea sessions. It has a traditional single-hole spout, and its broad body provides ample space for leaves to open, making it particularly suitable for larger-leaf oolongs, aged teas and other teas that benefit from a spacious brewing chamber.
A contemporary Yixing piece in the fullest sense: not an imitation of an antique form, but a carefully executed interpretation of a classic shape, where the quality lies in proportion, line, clay and the details of the maker’s hand.
Care Instructions
Not suitable for dishwashers or microwaves.
Gift Wrapping
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