20th Century Early PROC Pear Style (梨形壺) - Archived

This is part of the early Yixing series we will be offering, mainly consisted of early to mid 20th century pieces which used superb quality clay compared to modern day standard. We wish this series will give tea lovers an opportunity to learn and enjoy the beauty of Yixing clay. Why and how Yixing material was able to capture the heart of teapot lovers for hundreds of years, and have first hand experience with the unique texture Yixing clay could offer before it entered the post-modern era. 

This is a classical Pear shape (梨形) of pot which first appeared early in the history of Yixing culture. Many of the ceramics designed in the early period took their inspiration from natural forms, and this Pear style is representative of this characteristic. Thanks to its functionality, the pear-shaped design became a fertile foundation for the development of Yixing culture. The pear shape eventually evolved into various forms such as "Lotus Seed" (蓮子), "Autumn Water" (秋水), "Palace Lamp" (宮燈), and "Junde" (君德). 

The bottom stamp "Pan Shiyuan" (潘士元) is the name of a teapot master from the mid-Qing era. Unfortunately there are not many historical traces of this master, except for several refined teapots circulating in the modern day market. From the design and the material being used, we know this is not an original piece crafted by master Pan, but a tribute to him made in the mid-20th century.  

The material used to make this pot was early 20th century Red Clay. This texture and lustre of clay were often called "Republic Red Clay" among Yixing collectors due to its popularity during the so-called Republican Era. Unlike Zhuni clays, Red Clay is the middle ground between Zisha and Zhuni, offering a clear note for the tea while not sharpening it too much. Also, like many earlier-mined materials and any teapot that holds the integrity of Yixing essence, the texture and color of this clay will subtly yet visibly shift when the materials heats or the light source changes, making it a great companion at the night-time tea table.  

Mineral: Republic Era Red Clay / 民國紅泥

Mineral Location: Pan Huang Long Mountain Mine / 泛黃龍山礦脈

Firing Temperature: 1120 c / 仟壹佰貳拾 攝氏

Shrinkage: 14% / 分之 拾肆

Bottom Stamp: Pan, Shi-Yuan Made / 潘士元製

Volume: 140 ml / 佰肆拾 毫升