Handmade Yixing Zisha Teapot "Yun Long Jing Lan" (Cloud Dragon Well Rail) Zhu Ni | 云龙井栏 - 180ml

• Teapot Style: "Yun Long Jing Lan" (Cloud Dragon Well Rail) | 云龙井栏
• Material: Zhu Ni (Vermilion Clay) | 朱泥
• Craftsmanship: Handmade | 手工
• Origin: Yixing, Jiangsu Province, China | 中国江苏宜兴
• Capacity: 180 ml

Product Story & Description

The Name: "Yun Long Jing Lan"

"Jing Lan" means "well railing," the low stone curb that once ringed the village well, the heart of daily life in old China. Yixing potters borrowed its sturdy, drum-like silhouette, and the form has long been admired for its quiet, grounded strength. "Yun Long," cloud and dragon, adds the ancient image of a dragon riding the clouds, a symbol of vitality, good fortune and the rain that nourishes the land. Together, the name pairs an everyday object with a mythical blessing.

Design & Craftsmanship

The body is a broad, drum-like cylinder with gently swelling sides and a flat lid that sits nearly flush with the rim, topped with a small pierced pearl knob. The handle rises to a finely sculpted dragon head, and a short, sturdy spout gives a direct, controlled pour. One side is incised with bamboo stalks and leaves, finished with the maker's inscription and seal.

The Clay: Zhu Ni

Zhu Ni (along with the broader Hong Ni family) is known for its delicate texture and striking appearance. After firing, it features a beautiful color that ranges from bright orange to deep red. When showered with hot water, the clay beautifully comes alive, quickly flushing to a vibrant, bright red that sometimes exhibits a subtle, wandering purple glow.

Zhu Ni is characterized by its high density and low porosity. Because of this dense structure, the clay does not absorb the tea's fragrance. Instead, it acts to lock in and retain the delicate aromas of the tea leaves.

Due to its exceptional ability to preserve fragrance, Zhu Ni is perfectly suited for highly aromatic teas. We especially recommend it for light oolongs (such as Tieguanyin and Dancong) and Pu'er.

Learn more about Zhu Ni and other Yixing clays in our guide to Zisha clay types.