Unglazed stoneware・Wood-fired・170ml

Ceramicist Liao Guo Hua works with a range of different clay bases and glazes, using long, five-day firings in wood kilns to draw out the uniqueness of each piece. This is one in a series of six pieces we commissioned in 2018 from Liao Guo Hua. This series features thin, small teapots of light-colored stoneware, wood-fired for 5 days.

This particular teapot is round, and the largest in the series. It features a flat lid with a uniquely shaped finial, a beautifully curved spout, and a proportional handle. Seven outlets allow for quick evacuation of water. This piece entered the kiln without glazing, but emerged with a remarkable finish and texture from vitrified fly ash forming an organic glaze on all exposed surfaces. The top of this teapot received the heaviest dusting of wood fly ash, which has vitrified and crystallized on the lid surface and “melted” around the pot.

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: 70mm tall, 75mm diameter, 170ml・Artist: 廖國華