Iron, No. 3

Unglazed stoneware・Wood-fired・205ml

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 four pieces we commissioned in 2018 from Liao Guo Hua, featuring an iron-rich American clay that is wood-fired for 5 days.

This particular teapot is round, with a slightly pointed finial that echoes the curve of the spout. The spout is straight, with 7 outlets to evacuate water. The piece was fired without glazing on either the interior or exterior, emerging from the kiln with a dusting of vitrified wood-ash glaze. The iron-rich glaze gives the pot a dark, wrought iron appearance. The golden sheen of the original piece has been muted by the artist’s pre-seasoning, which gives it an iridescent copper sheen.

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: 80mm tall, 75mm diameter, 205ml・Artist: 廖國華