A 100ml Shipiao in family-stored 30-mesh antique bronze clay (古铜泥), made in Yixing using mold-assisted shaping with hand-finishing. The coarse 30-mesh grind gives the surface a visible, tactile texture that is distinct from standard fine-grained Yixing clay. At 100ml, this is a solo brewing pot — sized for one person, brewed with attention.
The Shape
The Shipiao (stone ladle) is one of Yixing's oldest and most replicated forms. The profile is trapezoidal when viewed from the front: narrower at the top, wider at the base, with the widest point sitting low on the body. Three small rounded feet lift the base slightly from the table, giving visual lightness without sacrificing stability.
This version — Guyun, meaning "ancient resonance" — follows the traditional Shipiao proportions in a reduced scale. At 100ml, every element is compact: the spout short and direct, the handle close to the body, the lid a tight fit. Simple and restrained throughout.
The body is engraved with calligraphy and the lid carries a raised scroll motif, both applied before firing. The carved decoration is part of the piece and will deepen in character along with the clay's patina.
The Clay
Family-stored antique bronze clay, 30-mesh coarse grind (家藏古铜泥，30目粗砂): This clay comes from a private stock held over time by the maker, rather than recently sourced ore — older stored clay is considered more stable in firing behavior. The 30-mesh grind is coarser than standard Yixing clay: the fired surface has a clearly visible sandy texture with small aggregate particles that can be seen and felt.
Coarser clay is more porous and seasons more actively than fine-ground clay. The color deepens noticeably with regular use, and the surface smooths gradually over time. Among Yixing enthusiasts, coarse-sand clay is considered one of the more rewarding materials to work with over the long term — the changes are visible and satisfying.
Specifications
| Capacity |
100ml ± 10ml |
| Dimensions |
L 10.5cm · H 5.3cm · Opening 3.2cm |
| Water outlet |
Mesh filter |
| Construction |
Mold-assisted shaping, hand-finished |
| Origin |
Yixing, Jiangsu, China |
What to Brew
At 100ml, this is a solo gongfu pot — one person, short steeping times, full attention. The Shipiao form is traditionally associated with Wuyi rock tea (yan cha) and Phoenix Dancong oolong, and the pairing works well here. It is also a good fit for high-roast Tie Guan Yin or ripe pu-erh brewed at concentration. The small volume means frequent pouring, which suits teas with strong and evolving flavor across steepings.
Seasoning Your New Pot
Rinse inside and out with boiling water two or three times before first use. Brew a session with your intended tea, discarding the first steeping. After each use, empty, leave the lid off, and allow to dry in open air. The coarse clay surface will show visible changes in color and texture earlier than fine-grained clay — this is normal and part of what makes this material interesting to use.
A Note on Color
All product photos are taken of the actual item. Colors may appear slightly different on your screen due to lighting conditions and monitor calibration. The clay color and surface texture you receive will be consistent with what is shown — minor variation is normal and not a quality issue.
Explore the full range: Return to the Teapots collection to see all Yixing teapots currently available.
