Zisha teapot De Zhong, handmade by artist Level 3, SHENG Zhong Jie（L3-2015）Shi Hong, Zhu Ni

🫖 Half Moon Teapot (Ban Yue 壶) – 190ml
Clay: Shi Hong (石红, variant of Zhu Ni)
Capacity: 190ml
Craftsmanship: Fully Handmade
Artist: Sheng Zhongjie 盛中杰
Level: National Arts & Crafts Artist (Level 3 – awarded in 2015)
Includes: Certificate of authenticity + gift box

Timeless Elegance, Rooted in Philosophy – DE ZHONG

De Zhong teapot is one of the classic teapot shapes that has been passed down to this day. It was first created by the master potter Shao Daheng during the Qing Jiaqing period, and it is also a representative work of the Plain-style (光素器）. It is a testament to his artistic level and personal charm, and its significance has surpassed the vessel itself. Its solemn and simple style highlights the magnanimous atmosphere of the simple and elegant Yixing clay, and it is deeply admired by people around the world.

De Zhong Yixing clay teapot is a model of morality and a culmination of the ethical standards of traditional culture. "Zhong" means concentration and gathering, and the so-called De Zhong is the culmination of moral norms. Thus, the pioneers of Yixing clay made this De Zhong teapot to carry the way. De Zhong Yixing clay teapot is a model of morality and a culmination of the ethical standards of traditional culture.

The De Zhong Yixing clay teapot has a dignified and stable shape, harmonious proportions, and a rigorous structure. The flat knob on the lid is similar in shape to the body of the pot, with a straight spout and ear-shaped handle, displaying the dignified and upright character of a gentleman. The lines of the pot's shoulder are rounded and natural, and the spout flows smoothly and naturally from the shoulder line, with each extending and turning gracefully, presenting a clear and atmospheric charm. The circular lines above and below the pot mouth resemble lightly pursed lips, conveying a calm and dignified expression, while the thin line on the lid serves as an embellishment, a truly inspired stroke, with thickness, width, and position perfectly balanced.

The spout and handle of the teapot are naturally curved, the body is straight without being flat or bulging, which is an extremely exquisite manifestation in the Yixing clay straight body tube, achieving the best visual effect. The bottom of the pot is like a naturally formed jade, with an excellent shape. The details of the spout are straight and smooth, with a clean and neat finish, truly achieving a strong practicality that is also aesthetically pleasing. De Zhong Yixing clay teapot embodies the gentleman's character, harmoniously blending cultural refinement with moral integrity, and benefiting the world.

About the Clay – Shi Hong (Stone Red)
Shi Hong, also known as "Stone Red," is a rare and highly prized subtype of Yixing Zhu Ni. With high mineral content, particularly iron and zinc, this clay is known for its:

Deep reddish-brown color, sometimes bordering on purplish-black after firing

Metallic luster that develops with use (hence nicknamed “iron pot clay”)

Very low plasticity, making it extremely hard to shape and fire

Strong tea-enhancing properties, especially for Shou Pu-erh, Liu Bao, and dark teas

Shi Hong clay is notoriously difficult to work with, and only master-level artisans attempt to use it for full-handmade teapots. This adds immense collectible value and rarity to the piece.

About the Artist – Sheng Zhongjie 盛中杰
Born in 1972, Sheng Zhongjie is a Level 3 National Arts & Crafts Artist, and a direct disciple of Master Xu Hantang 徐汉棠, a China National Grand Master. He began his formal training in the late 1980s and has since held key technical and design roles in Yixing’s famed Zisha Factory No. 2.

His accolades include:
🏆 Multiple Gold Awards in national-level arts & crafts exhibitions
🏆 Permanent museum collections in Wuxi, Xinjiang, and Anhui
🏆 Publications in major ceramic journals and academic exhibitions

Sheng is known for his deep grounding in tradition and his delicate integration of philosophy into form. His works are meditative, minimalist, and full of soul, often expressing a poetic narrative in clay.

Recommended Teas: Shou Pu-erh, Liu Bao, Black Tea, Aged White

A masterpiece of balance, intention, and heritage — a collectible teapot that speaks to the mind and the heart.