Yixing Pear-Skin Da Hong Pao Shui Ping Teapot

Shui Ping is one of the most recognizable forms at the gongfu tea table. A rounded body sits between a straight spout and loop handle, with the lid kept close to the shoulder so the three parts read as a balanced horizontal line.

This 200 ml version is made in pear-skin Da Hong Pao clay. Its warm red color is broken by a fine granular surface, visible most clearly around the shoulder and lower body where side light moves across the unglazed clay.

The form became closely associated with southern gongfu practice, where compact pots support measured, repeated infusions. Here, the capacity is large enough to share while remaining controlled in one hand. The horizontal relationship between body, spout and handle gives the pot the composure for which the Shui Ping form is known.

As a first red-clay Yixing form, Shui Ping offers unusual clarity. Nothing depends on carving or symbolic ornament; its appeal rests on balance, familiar handling and the contrast between a classical outline and a tactile mineral surface.

• Origin: Yixing, Jiangsu, China
• Material: Unglazed pear-skin Da Hong Pao Zisha clay
• Form: Shui Ping teapot
• Capacity: Approx. 200 ml / 6.8 oz
• Length: 13.2 cm / 5.2 in
• Mouth diameter: 5 cm / 2.0 in
• Height: 7.5 cm / 3.0 in
• Set includes: One teapot