Unglazed・Stoneware・Wood-fired

This tea pot from Taiwanese ceramicist Zhang Yun Cheng was crafted from a mixture of Taiwanese and Japanese stoneware. It was then fired in a wood-kiln for five days, then subsequently re-fired for a total of ten days.

What entered the wood-kiln as an unglazed piece emerged with a beautiful metallic luster with tones of copper and gold. The top surfaces are layered with vitrified fly ash, with a running drip down the front of the pot next to the spout. The base is glossy, with warm copper and gold tones, enhanced by pre-seasoning in tea by the ceramicist.

The most unique feature of this pot, and what significantly increases its value is the kintsugi repair on the underside of the pot handle. The potter used lacquer mixed with powdered gold to fill imperfections on the handle, creating a web of gold revealed only when the pot is turned over.

The wide opening, interior ball filter for fast tea drainage, and long spout that precisely directs the flow of tea makes this not only a beautiful pot to display, but also a technically well-designed pot to use.

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: 90mm tall, 85mm diameter, 240ml・Artist: 張允澄