The Shipiao shape has long been an irreplaceable icon for tea lovers thanks to its solid "narrow above, broad below" massing, its inverted triangular handle and the three sturdy feet at the base. This piece is brought to life by an exquisite hand-carved picture: the front depicts a buffalo full of character, a symbol of diligence, accumulated wealth and a family at peace. Symmetrically on the back are the four calligraphic characters "Ngưu Vận Hanh Thông" (牛运亨通), carrying the wish that the owner's fortune always run smooth, that luck be plentiful, that wealth flow abundantly and that every obstacle be overcome with strength.
The teapot is made from aged zini – raw-ore zini (purple clay) that was stored and matured for many years before the pot was made:
Outstanding mineral value: Thanks to the aged clay, the natural trace-mineral content is extremely rich, able to interact deeply with the tea liquor, markedly softening any harsh, rough edge, making the liquor smooth and silky, sweet in the finish and awakening the deepest, fullest flavour.
Peak breathability and aroma retention: The aged double-pore structure lets the pot hold heat exceptionally well while still breathing beautifully, so the tea is never stewed and the liquor never changes colour. In particular, aged zini takes to tea remarkably well and develops its patina quickly; after just a few weeks of seasoning with hot tea, the surface will raise a fine, glossy film, as antique as jade.
Beyond its aesthetic value and feng shui meaning, this 225ml Shipiao teapot wins over the most demanding tea drinkers thanks to a standard of functional finish:
Traditional 9-hole filter: The filter holes are drilled by hand, round and crisp, and laid out methodically in a plum-blossom pattern inside the pot wall. This design lets the liquor flow out fast and freely while still holding back the leaves effectively.
A perfectly judged flow: the short, slender spout works in harmony with the absolutely tight fit of the lid. On pouring, the tea streams out strongly in a round, smooth column and cuts off decisively, with no dripping or seeping at the tip of the spout. The weight of the triangular ring handle is balanced in perfect symmetry with the body, giving a wonderfully secure and comfortable feel in the hand.
All products are in stock and on display in our shops.
