Handmade Yixing Zisha Teapot "De Zhong" (Virtue Bell) | 德钟 - 200ml

• Teapot Style: "De Zhong" (Virtue Bell) | 德钟
• 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: 200 ml

Product Story & Description

The Name: "De Zhong"

"De Zhong" means "Virtue Bell." Its form comes from the bronze bells of ancient China, which rang out in temples and royal courts as symbols of order, harmony and moral authority. The character "De" (德) stands for virtue and integrity, a core value of Confucian thought. A bell also stood for a call to reflection, so this shape carries a quiet dignity. That made it a favorite of scholars and tea lovers. It remains one of the classic forms of Yixing teapot making, valued for its steady, upright presence.

Design & Craftsmanship

The body is a sturdy, bell-shaped cylinder that widens gently toward the base. The rim and lid have neatly stepped tiers, topped with a small button knob, and the clean lines give the pot a solid, architectural look. A short, straight spout gives a direct, controlled pour. The rounded loop handle sits well-balanced against the spout and is easy to grip. One side of the body has a finely incised bamboo spray. Bamboo is the scholar's emblem of integrity and resilience, and its slender leaves bring a touch of literati elegance to the deep purple-brown surface. The base carries the maker's 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.