Handmade Yixing Zisha Teapot "Ru Yi Fang Gu" (Ruyi Antique) | 如意仿古 - 160ml

• Teapot Style: "Ru Yi Fang Gu" (Ruyi Antique) | 如意仿古
• 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: 160 ml

Product Story & Description

The Name: "Ru Yi Fang Gu"

"Fang Gu" means "imitating the ancient," and it is one of the best-known classic Yixing shapes, admired for its full, rounded body and low, steady profile, which recall the bronze vessels of antiquity. "Ru Yi" means "as you wish." It names the cloud-headed scepter and the curling ruyi cloud, ancient Chinese emblems of good fortune. This pot wraps the classic Fang Gu form in that auspicious motif.

Design & Craftsmanship

The full, rounded body is wrapped in bold, raised ruyi-cloud scrolls that curl around the belly, giving the classic Fang Gu form a rich, sculptural presence. A stepped, domed lid with a loop knob sits on top, and a short spout and rounded handle keep the outline compact and balanced. The relief work catches the light beautifully as the pot is turned in the hand.

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.