Capacity: 140 ml

This teapot by Zheng Bixin is defined by a compact, rounded form designed for precision and control in small-volume brewing. The body sits comfortably in the palm, creating a contained brewing chamber that concentrates heat and aroma. Proportions are tight and deliberate, with smooth transitions between body, spout, handle, and lid that give the vessel a unified and balanced silhouette. The overall scale encourages attentiveness, making it especially suited to focused gongfu sessions.

The teapot is crafted from iron rich red clay, commonly associated with Zhuni, valued for its density, heat responsiveness, and ability to enhance aromatic clarity.

Left unglazed, the surface shows fine texture from hand shaping and firing, allowing the natural qualities of the clay to remain present. This clay retains heat efficiently while responding quickly to temperature changes, supporting depth, structure, and concentration in the brewed liquor. With continued use, the surface gradually deepens in tone and develops a soft sheen shaped by contact with tea and water.

Design choices are guided by function. The interior volume supports even extraction, while the short spout is calibrated for a clean, controlled pour. The lid fits securely within the rim, maintaining pressure consistency and preventing heat loss during brewing. The handle is positioned for balance and comfort, allowing steady handling despite the vessel’s small size. Each element works together to create a predictable and responsive brewing experience.

Over time, the teapot evolves through repeated use. Its surface becomes smoother, its presence more pronounced, and its relationship with tea more intimate. Rather than serving as an ornamental piece, it becomes a dependable tool shaped by repetition, material integrity, and the rhythms of daily tea practice.