Handmade Yixing Zisha Teapot "Han Wa" (Han Tile) | 汉瓦 - 150ml

• Teapot Style: "Han Wa" (Han Tile) | 汉瓦
• Material: Di Cao Qing (Bottom-Seam Purple Clay) | 底槽青
• Craftsmanship: Handmade | 手工
• Origin: Yixing, Jiangsu Province, China | 中国江苏宜兴
• Capacity: 150 ml

Product Story & Description

The Name: "Han Wa"

The "Han Wa" takes its name from the roof tiles of the Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD). Their round end-caps were stamped with auspicious words and images, and scholars of later centuries collected them as treasures of antiquity. The teapot form echoes their low, broad silhouette and flat surfaces, which served as a canvas for carving, so Han Wa pots have long been favored for decoration. It is a classic shape steeped in the scholar's love of history.

Design & Craftsmanship

The low, wide cylindrical body is classic Han Wa, with crisp lines at the rim and base. The flat lid carries an arched bridge knob that echoes the curve of a roof tile, and a straight spout and rounded handle keep the profile clean and balanced. Bamboo leaves are incised around the body, signed with the maker's inscription and seal.

The Clay: Di Cao Qing

Di Cao Qing (Bottom-Seam Purple Clay) is one of the most treasured varieties of Zini, the classic purple clay of Yixing. Its name comes from where it lies. The ore forms a thin layer at the very bottom (Di) of the purple clay seam (Cao), and in its raw state it has a faint bluish-green tinge (Qing). Because it makes up only a small part of each seam, it has always been valued more highly than ordinary Zini.

After firing, Di Cao Qing turns a deep, dignified purple-brown, sometimes with a subtle bluish undertone. The surface is scattered with fine, pale mineral specks, a texture tea lovers call "Li Pi" (pear skin). The clay is dense yet breathable. With regular use, the surface absorbs the tea's oils and slowly takes on a rich, jade-like luster. The more you brew, the more beautiful it becomes.

Like all Zini clays, Di Cao Qing has excellent breathability and a unique dual-porosity structure, which make it exceptionally versatile. It gently rounds out astringency and elevates the complex flavors of roasted oolongs, Pu'er and black teas.

Learn more about Di Cao Qing and other Yixing clays in our guide to Zisha clay types.