ZISHA TEAPOT XI SHI, HANDMADE BY ARTIST LEVEL 3, WANG LI-JUAN（L3-2019）Zhu Ni

🫖 XI SHI Teapot 皱皮朱泥 曼殊壶
Clay: Zhu Ni(Xiao  Mei Yao) 
Capacity: 250ml
Artist: WANG LI-JUAN 王利娟
Level: National Arts & Crafts Artist (Level 3 – awarded in 2015)
Includes: Certificate of authenticity + gift box

Xi-shi teapot, one of the essential "Three Musketeers" for teapot enthusiasts, is named after the renowned beauty Xi-shi. The teapot's form resembles the voluptuous figure of the beauty, with the knob resembling a nipple, short and slightly robust spout, and a handle that curves gracefully. The lid is crafted in a truncated style, and the bottom of the pot curves inward near the base, creating a distinctive shape. The spout represents Xi-shi's mouth, and the body of the teapot perfectly corresponds to the vessel's water-holding section, with the handle resembling a slender waist. In later times, the term "Xi-shi breast" was deemed inappropriate and replaced with "Inverted Xi-shi Teapot."

 The enduring popularity of the Xi-shi teapot is rooted in historical records of this specific teapot shape in Yixing clay history.

The Xi-shi teapot presented here is crafted from original Xiao Mei Yao Zhu Ni clay. Resembling a charming young lady, this teapot captivates with its petite form, reminiscent of a seductive and full-bodied figure. The rounded and elegant body mirrors the curves of a plump woman. Adorned with a beaded knob, the short and cute spout, and the graceful inverted handle give the appearance of a sophisticated hairstyle, adding maturity and elegance. This teapot is not only practical but also a delight to appreciate, offering both utility and aesthetic value.