|
|||||||
|
|
|
|||||
|
|
|||||||
You see them everywhere. Small clay teapots clustered on market tables and store shelves. Affordably priced and infinite in design, they make the perfect souvenir of a Taiwan stay. In spite of their diminutive size, these pint-sized pots are brimming with history.Modeled after the famous Ming Period “Purple Sand Teapots” of Yixing (Jiangsu Province), they carry on an illustrious tradition. Coveted by aristocrats and scholars, these miniatures embody all that was noble, not to mention that from their tiny spouts flowed the nectar of the gods…Tea. Classic pot shapes ranged from the ordinary (vegetables, insects or simple objects in daily life) to the extraordinary (ritual vessels, convoluted rocks or mythical creatures). Carefully crafted of fine grain clay that was left unglazed, a surprising array of colors were coaxed to the finished surface likened to the fragrant skin of pomegranates, the delicate blush of begonias or the regal hues of cinnabar.
Alternately known as “Kung Fu Pots”, legend credits a Buddhist monk for making the first purple sand teapot. Documentation actually points to Gong Chun, tea enthusiast, around 1513. His work caught on, and soon purple tea wares were sent in tribute to the Chinese court, sold to Edo period Japanese collectors and packed aboard export ships bound for Holland, where they were christened “red mud wares”. Purple sand teapots are well represented in Taiwan on the commercial market and in private collections.
The special composition of clay in Yixing is well suited to the craft. High in iron content, a finished piece will keep tea at a toasty temperature, hotter than porcelain, yet it won’t harm the hands. Because the clay is less sensitive to temperature changes, these pots rarely crack. And since there is minimal contraction when fired in the kiln, there’s less distortion in the final shape.
The ingenious designs of antique purple clay pots were truly inspired, often with poetic implication. Modeled by hand and carefully burnished to a soft sheen, some owners were even moved to drink directly from the pinched spout. Of course, a well-seasoned pot acquires a flavor of its own that enhances its legacy. And so, many purple pots were passed on as heirlooms carrying with them a spirit of all who had touched them.
The uninitiated might question the small size. According to an ancient Chinese verse, “If one tastes tea by himself, he would attain true spirit. If two people taste tea, they would know true pleasure. If three people taste tea, they would learn to appreciate true quality. If any more than this taste tea together, it is a waste of a fine brew." Perhaps, this prescription for a limited number of tea drinkers may be the reason. But these days most everyone agrees, the more the merrier.
Few can afford either the originals or collectibles designed by modern masters. However, during the late 19th century, commercial workshops were established on the mainland to satisfy common needs and put purple sand teapots within easy reach. Today, the local market is flooded with look-alikes. Surprisingly, these replicas receive careful attention and “hands-on” crafting. Sections are made in moulds that are joined together. Embellishments and surface decoration are added by hand. Special cloths are sold in tea shops and its up to the owner to hand rub them to a dull shine.
Choosing the right pot requires some scrutiny. Ensure a snug fitting lid, one that is hollowed so that water can condense and aid the steeping of tea. Be sure to check for clean seams outside and smooth interiors. The final choice rests on visual preference. Some shoppers are attracted by pure whimsy; others by symbolic shapes or evocative poems incised on the pot’s belly. In spite of mass production, there is an incredibly wide selection suggesting a “one of a kind” purchase. Even inexpensive pots are artfully stamped on the bottom with the company’s name; high priced ware includes that of an individual craftsman. Care is pretty straightforward. A good hot water rinse after use is all that’s needed.
How can you resist the temptation? At reasonable prices and with such an impressive pedigree, imitation purple clay pots found in Taiwan’s market place make the perfect gift for yourself or friends at home.
