Stoneware・Wood-fired・140ml

This is one of six old-stock teapots we acquired from the artist’s studio on our 2018 sourcing trip. This teapot was crafted in 2013.

Qiu Qing Yun relies solely on his knowledge of clay and mastery of wood-firing to craft each piece: no glaze is ever used. He throws and shapes each teapot by hand, then air-dries them before firing. Instead of bisque firing, the air-dried pieces enter the wood-kiln directly. Using only wood for fuel, the kiln’s temperature is gradually increased over a 12 hour period until it reaches 1280C. That temperature is held for 5 days before it is gradually reduced over the course of a week. Each step is crucial in creating the finished product. While actual firing is 5 days, each piece spends nearly two weeks in the kiln.

This particular teapot has a coating of wood fly ash “glaze” on the top surfaces of the pot. The effect is smooth, subtly textured, blending into an “unglazed” base that is seasoned by the ceramicist with tea.

A unique feature of this teapot is the gold kintsugi repair on the outlet of the spout. The spout features a small throat and ten outlets that facilitate water evacuation. The teapot’s base is signed and dated by the artist.

Usage and care: Unglazed wood-fired pieces will season very slowly over time, though limited porosity allows for use of different tea types. Exterior of the teapot will deepen in color and develop a rich luster as it patinas. Hand-wash only without soap or detergent.

Approximate dimensions: 60mm tall, 80mm diameter, 140ml・Artist: 邱青雲