[Photo provided to wuxi.gov.cn]
The Yixing purple clay pottery-making technique was designated as part of the first group of national intangible cultural heritage items in 2006.
Origin
The Yixing purple clay (zisha) pottery craft is a traditional ceramic art that originated in Dingshu town, Yixing, Wuxi. It first appeared during the Song and Yuan dynasties (960-1368), reached maturity in the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), and has a history of over 600 years.
Production
It uses unique local clays like purple, red, and green, known for their granular and porous structures, as raw materials. Craftsmen use over 100 custom-made tools and carry out steps including slab preparation, shaping the body, surface finishing, and carving decorations.
Features
Purple clay pottery is renowned for its teapots, which come in various styles including plain, ribbed, and floral designs. These pieces are typically unglazed, highlighting their natural texture. Their distinctive breathability enhances the aroma and flavor of tea, firmly establishing purple clay ware as a key element of Chinese tea culture.
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