Handmade Yixing Zisha Teapot "Yun Zhu" (Cloud Pillar) | 云柱 - 160ml

• Teapot Style: "Yun Zhu" (Cloud Pillar) | 云柱
• Material: Zhu Ni (Vermilion Clay) | 朱泥
• Craftsmanship: Handmade | 手工
• Origin: Yixing, Jiangsu Province, China | 中国江苏宜兴
• Capacity: 160 ml

Product Story & Description

The Name: "Yun Zhu"

"Yun Zhu" means "cloud pillar." It recalls the carved stone column bases of classical Chinese architecture, the sturdy footings that held up great halls and temples. Paired with "yun," the auspicious cloud, the name joins solid, lasting strength with lightness and good fortune. The form is low and steady, like a foundation stone you can rely on.

Design & Craftsmanship

The body is low and wide, flaring out toward the base like a stone column footing. The gently domed lid is crowned with a curling ruyi-cloud knob, and a short spout and rounded handle keep the outline compact. Around the body runs an incised band of ancient Chinese coins strung on a cord, a traditional emblem of wealth, signed 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.