Overview
The Lanxiang (兰香) teapot is an elegant and poetic creation in Yixing pottery, cherished for its symbolic beauty and masterful craftsmanship. Translating to "Fragrance of Orchids," this teapot honors the orchid flower (Lan Hua), revered in Chinese culture for its graceful elegance, purity, and deep fragrance. The carvings on this teapot reflect the refined spirit of orchids and the timeless beauty they represent.
Design & Artistry
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The Sculpture: The teapot’s design embodies the delicate and graceful nature of the orchid. The spout, handle, and lid knob are meticulously sculpted, complementing the smooth, elegant curve of the body. The intricate relief carvings on the body and lid evoke the form of orchid petals and stems, giving the piece a dynamic, natural quality while maintaining a balanced, harmonious shape.
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Orchid Carvings and Inscription: The teapot is adorned with elegant carvings of orchids, which symbolize beauty, refinement, and grace. The inscription "幽兰吐芳" (Yōu lán tǔ fāng), meaning "The subtle orchid exhales fragrance," is delicately carved along the surface, representing the quiet but profound influence of the orchid's fragrance. These details transform the teapot from a mere functional item into a work of art, embodying the essence of nature's elegance.
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Material: Crafted from premium Zini (Purple Clay), this teapot is made from high-iron, porous clay that allows for excellent heat retention, enhancing the infusion of the tea's flavor. Over time, the clay will absorb the oils from the tea, developing a lustrous patina that improves both the appearance and the tea's flavor.
Functional Excellence
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Balanced Pour: The Lanxiang teapot is designed for both aesthetic beauty and practical use. The ergonomically shaped handle ensures a comfortable grip, while the delicately sculpted spout allows for a steady, smooth pour, making it ideal for refined tea ceremonies.
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Precision Engineering: The lid fits securely, ensuring an airtight seal that preserves the optimal environment for brewing. The artisan’s craftsmanship is evident in the precise fit and high-quality construction, ensuring both form and function are perfected.
Tea Pairing Recommendations
The heat-retaining qualities of Zini make this teapot perfect for teas that benefit from high temperatures to fully express their flavors, such as:
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Light Oolongs: Such as Tie Guan Yin, to enhance the floral and delicate notes.
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Green Teas: To bring out their smooth, refreshing flavor.
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White Teas: To highlight their subtle sweetness and fragrance.
Why We Love It
At Tea Dealers, we seek pieces that combine technical precision with soulful beauty. The Lanxiang Yixing teapot, with its graceful orchid carvings and the poetic inscription, is a perfect representation of elegance and refinement. This teapot is not only a functional piece for tea lovers but also a collector's treasure, bringing the fragrance and spirit of orchids into every tea ceremony.