Zisha teapot Yun Jian Ru Yi, handmade by Artist Level 2, CAO Lan Fang 曹兰芳 L2-2011 紫泥“三脚云肩如意”

Tri-Legged Cloud Shoulder Ruyi Teapot (Yun Jian Ru Yi) – A Masterpiece of Yixing Zisha Art

Teapot Overview

The Tri-Legged Cloud Shoulder Ruyi Teapot is a celebrated creation by the legendary Gu Jingzhou, one of the greatest Yixing Zisha masters. This iconic teapot embodies his artistic innovation and unparalleled craftsmanship. With a dignified yet graceful form, it seamlessly blends tradition and creativity, making it one of the most exquisite teapot designs in Yixing's history.

One of its most distinctive features is its three-legged design, which provides exceptional stability while enhancing the teapot’s three-dimensional presence. The shoulders of the teapot are adorned with cloud-like motifs (yun jian, 云肩), symbolizing auspiciousness and prosperity. These smooth, flowing lines create an ethereal beauty, making the piece both functional and highly artistic.

The spout is short yet robust, ensuring a smooth pour, while the handle is round and well-proportioned, offering a comfortable grip. The perfectly fitted lid and overall harmonious structure highlight the masterful engineering behind this piece.

Crafting this teapot is an incredibly complex process. The precise balance of the three legs, the symmetry of the body, and the intricate cloud shoulder detailing demand an extraordinary level of skill. Additionally, the high difficulty of firing makes successfully completed pieces exceptionally rare.

Clay Material: Made from Qingshui Ni (清水泥) / Aged Purple Clay (老紫泥), the teapot boasts a delicate texture, rich earthy tone, and refined elegance. With proper seasoning and use, it develops an increasingly lustrous patina, enhancing its beauty over time.

About the Artist

This exquisite piece is handcrafted by Cao Lanfang, a National Senior Arts & Crafts Master from a renowned Yixing pottery family. Born in 1963, she trained under her cousin, Cao Yanping (a Research-Level Senior Arts & Crafts Master and Jiangsu Province Arts & Crafts Master), and has dedicated decades to refining her Zisha artistry.

Cao Lanfang is part of the famous "Cao Family Four Hands", alongside her cousin Cao Yalin (a China National Arts & Crafts Master), cousin Cao Yanping, and brother Cao Anxiang (China’s foremost expert in Zisha incense burners). Her works are highly valued for their practicality and artistic excellence, making them sought-after pieces for collectors and tea connoisseurs alike.

Capacity: 320ml
A rare and collectible masterpiece!