Yixing Zisha Handmade Cat Teapot
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Estimated Delivery:Oct 30 - Nov 03
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Free Shipping & Returns: On all orders
Yixing Zisha Handmade Cat Teapot
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Material & Craftsmanship
Meticulously handcrafted from natural Yixing Zisha clay, this teapot measures approximately 8cm (H) × 6cm (W) × 5cm (L). The fine, smooth clay is fired in a traditional kiln to achieve a deep brown-black hue. The teapot features hand-carved feline fur textures, red decorative eyes, and an orange bead knob on the lid, showcasing exquisite Zisha artistry.
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Shape Design
Inspired by a lounging cat, the teapot captures a resting posture with the cat's head slightly raised and eyes gently closed as if napping. The naturally extended front paws, rounded spout, and ergonomic handle combine playful charm with practical elegance.
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Symbolic Meaning
In Chinese culture, cats symbolize wealth attraction and good fortune, representing the bringing of prosperity and happiness. This teapot is both a functional tea tool and an auspicious item, ideal for gifting to tea lovers, business partners, or collectors to convey heartfelt wishes.
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User Experience
Nurtured over time with tea liquor, the teapot develops a smooth patina, deepening its color and luster. The comfortable grip, balanced weight, and precise pouring design enhance the tea-making experience, adding a touch of warmth and interaction to daily rituals.
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Scene & Value
Perfect for Chinese tea tables, study desks, offices, or home display shelves. It serves as a practical brewing vessel, a thoughtful gift for openings or tea ceremonies, or a cultural collectible, blending artistic value with everyday utility.
Yixing Teapot Crafting Process
Seven steps of traditional craftsmanship passed down for centuries
Material Selection
Selecting the finest purple clay from Huanglong Mountain. Ore undergoes natural weathering and manual screening to ensure high purity and plasticity.
- Ore depth ≥5 meters
- 3-stage screening
- 72 hours weathering
- Clay purity >98%
Clay Refining
Traditional stone grinding techniques transform raw clay into workable material. The process ensures optimal plasticity for shaping.
- 12 hours grinding
- Manual pounding
- 48 hours sedimentation
- Precise moisture control
Hand Shaping
Artisans use paddle forming methods to create the teapot body. Continuous work ensures uniform thickness and smooth lines.
- Precise paddlings
- Thickness ≤0.5mm
- Unique fingerprint
- Spout/handle alignment
Intricate Carving
Master craftsmen carve patterns into the teapot surface. Each stroke reflects artistic vision and technical skill.
- Hand-carved details
- Traditional motifs
- Uniform 0.3mm depth
- Custom designs
Natural Drying
Teapots dry in controlled environments to prevent warping or cracking. Temperature and humidity are precisely maintained.
- 25±2℃ temperature
- 60±5% humidity
- 48-hour period
- Regular rotation
Traditional Firing
Traditional kilns fire teapots at 1180°C±10°C for 12 hours. Pine wood firing imparts unique mineral effects.
- Precise temperature
- 12-hour duration
- 48-hour cooling
- Pine wood effects
Fine Polishing
Artisans hand-polish teapots using natural materials. The process enhances luster and creates a protective layer.
- 3-stage process
- Natural beeswax
- Gloss inspection
- Quality control
Teapot Seasoning and Maintenance
1. Seasoning Method
1. Cleaning
Remove any dust or impurities from inside and outside the teapot and its components. Rinse the teapot thoroughly with hot water to warm it up.
2. Initial Brewing
Brew your preferred tea in the pot and pour the tea liquor over the exterior. When the temperature is high, the subtle pores of the teapot expand slightly, allowing moisture to appear on the surface. Gently wipe the body with a tea maintenance cloth while it is still warm. Repeat this entire process at least three times. Note: The tea brewed during this step is not suitable for drinking.
3. Drying
After several rounds of brewing, the “fire energy” (raw kiln feel) of the teapot will be largely reduced. Rinse the pot with clean water and let it air dry completely. It is then ready for daily use.
Tip:
If a strong chemical odor is detected after boiling or if the color of the pot fades, it may indicate a chemically dyed teapot. This method can help identify authentic Zisha clay.
2. Maintenance Principles
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Before brewing, moisten the outside of the pot with warm water before adding water inside—a practice known as “rinsing the pot.”
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After use, wipe the exterior with a soft cloth to keep it dry. Avoid leaving tea liquid inside to prevent residue buildup, which may affect the pot’s appearance.
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Allow the teapot to “rest” for 3–5 days after a period of use, ensuring it dries thoroughly.
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Keep the pot away from oily or dusty environments to maintain the porous structure of the clay.
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Follow the “one teapot for one type of tea” rule to prevent cross-flavoring.
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Never use detergents or chemical cleaners, as they can damage the natural luster of the teapot.
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We want you to be 100% satisfied with your purchase. Items can be returned or exchanged within 30 days of delivery.
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