Zisha teapot Well Fence (Jing Lan), handmade by Studio Craftsmanship ZHUANG Lei, Duan Ni

🫖 The Well Fence Teapot (井栏）
Clay: Duan Ni (Old Duanni 老段泥) – Rare Symbiotic Zisha Clay

Capacity: 220ml
Artist: ZHUANG Lei 庄雷( 莊雷)

THE CLAY

Laoduan clay is a naturally occurring symbiotic ore formed by the blending of original Ben Shan Lü Ni (local green clay) and Zi Ni (purple clay) in the wild. Unlike artificially mixed clays, this co-mineralized material is mined in its natural state from the northern slope of Tuan Shan, where Huanglong Mountain and Qinglong Mountain meet — an area historically referred to as the origin of "Tuan Shan Ni" in classic Zisha literature.

Clay Characteristics
Kiln Temperature: ~1150–1200°C

Shrinkage Rate: ~12%–13%

Color After Firing: Ranges from bronze-like sheen to golden yellow with a reddish glow, depending on temperature and sand blending

Clay Body: Firm and fine-grained, with a smooth, dense finish

Breathability: Excellent

Clay Type: Fully matured aged clay (熟泥) through extended underground storage (陈腐)

Why Collectors Love Laoduan Clay
Laoduan is celebrated for its classic texture, stunning fired color, and broad brewing compatibility. The mineral balance of this symbiotic ore creates a teapot body that is both structurally strong and aesthetically warm. Its high iron and mineral content produce a refined sheen and bronze-like depth, making it a favorite among serious collectors.

This clay is technically challenging to work with, requiring experience and care during both shaping and firing, but the end result is well worth the effort.

Recommended Teas
Laoduan teapots are forgiving and versatile, making them ideal for both beginners and seasoned brewers. They work particularly well with:

Young Sheng Pu-erh

Oolong (esp. Tie Guan Yin, Dancong)

Black Tea

Green Tea

The teapot’s natural breathability ensures a smooth, gentle extraction of flavor, while offering clarity and softness in the tea liquor.

THE SHAPE

The Well Fence Teapot, an innovative creation by the grand master Chen Mansheng, stands as a pinnacle among classic traditional teapot designs. Its unique physique, mirroring the structure of a well fence, is meticulously crafted with graceful curved lines, forming a seamless cylindrical body. The teapot's shoulders exhibit an elegant roundness, and the lid, embedded with captivating curves, adds a touch of allure. The knob, resembling a cylindrical column, gracefully extends at a slant, harmonizing with the circular handle that complements the spout. Together, they create a visually rhythmic and harmonious composition.

This teapot's overall design is marked by simplicity, featuring concise lines meticulously balanced to invite contemplation and appreciation. The exquisite craftsmanship is evident in the detailed inlay work, ensuring smooth lines, an even surface, and a well-rounded form. These elements, subtly concealed within the artwork, play a pivotal role in defining its elevated artistic quality, contributing to the teapot's enduring charm and appeal.

出自苏轼词《浣溪沙 从泗州刘倩叔游南山》：

细雨斜风作晓寒，淡烟疏柳媚晴滩。入淮清洛渐漫漫。

雪沫乳花浮午盏，蓼茸蒿笋试春盘。人间有味是清欢。 

“浮世”，人间。 “清欢”，不是大欢、狂欢，更不是贪欢。与此相对应，便就是一种清清爽爽的欢愉。 远离喧嚣的城市，远离官场的争斗，忘却名利欲望，感受素朴的清茶淡饭生活，这就是“清欢”。 “清欢”有味。

当然，今天，我们赞赏“清欢”，未必是苏轼所言走进山林、拒食人间烟火。 而是要面对社会人生，少一些抄作的热闹，多做一些尽心的实事； 少一些虚伪的笑脸，多一些坦然的真诚与平和。

庄雷 DUAN NI 老段泥  “井栏” - 浮世清欢