This carved teacup was handmade in Yixing of aged duan ni clay. On close inspection, you will find tiny black grains. These grains are found in red iron ore, and they turn black under high temperature.

The texture of the clay is relatively sandy and rough. We particularly like the sophisticated carved magnolia vase pattern and classic shape of this teacup.

Zisha (紫砂) clay from Yixing is highly valued because of the porous nature of the clay. As you use it, oils from your tea moisturize the teacup, which over time can enhance the flavor of the tea that you brew in it. For this reason, we recommend dedicating your new Yixing teacup to one type of tea only.

Particularly for our old duanni clay teacup, we recommend you to dedicate it to a lighter colored tea, such as young sheng puer, greenish oolong, green tea, white tea, etc., that way your teacup won’t pick up a brownish “dirty” color if you forget to clean it after each usage. However, if you prefer an evenly brownish look, dedicating your teacup to an aged tea such as aged puerh or black tea might be desirable. And that’s actually what our potter prefers. All in all, duanni clay is regarded as one of the most “breathable” clays in Yixing. It responds pretty well with your tea. As long as you clean your teacup after each usage, and give a little bit more care to the cup, you won’t be disappointed by the finish.

Handmade Magnolia Vase Carved Duan Ni Teacup:
Diameter: 4.5 cm
Height: 6.6 cm
Volume: 75 ml