Teapot Dabin Tilian

History of appearance

The Dabin Tiliang Teapot (Chinese: 大彬提梁壶, pinyin: Dà bin tíliáng hú) was created during the Ming period, when the art of Yixing ceramics reached its peak. Shi Dabin (Chinese: 时大彬, pinyin: Shí Dàbīn), a famous master of that era, made a huge contribution to the development of Yixing teapots and is considered one of the founders of their classic form.

At first glance, the Dabin Tiliang teapot seems unremarkable, but upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that it conceals a depth of artistic design and technical skill. The teapot’s special feature lies in its balance between massiveness and grace: the rounded body harmonizes with the thick, arched handle, which creates an impression of fragility and dynamic stability.

Development of form

During the Ming and early Qing Dynasties, this teapot was considered small compared to other kitchen items. The height of the teapot was 20.5 cm, and its diameter was 9.4 cm. To modern eyes, these dimensions seem quite ordinary, which once again emphasizes the unique perception of sizes and shapes in different historical periods.

Design Features of the Dabin Tilian Teapot

1. Form and structure

The Dabin Tilian teapot has a number of unique design elements that create its unique appearance:

• Rounded Body: Smooth, rounded body shapes symbolize harmony and integrity.
• Arched handle: The massive but light handle creates a contrast with the rounded body, forming two symbolic circles - political and volumetric.
• Hexagonal spout: The spout has three curves, which gives the kettle a special aesthetic appearance.
• Six-petal button: The lid of the kettle features a small decorative button in the form of six petals, which emphasizes the attention to detail.
• Sloping Shoulders: The smooth transition from the body to the lid adds rhythm and visual balance to the piece.

2. Surface texture

The surface of the teapot often has a rough texture known as "pear skin". This texture is colored to incorporate sand particles into the clay. During the firing process, the ammonium chloride formed in the sand appears as golden inclusions, forming sparkling stars on the surface of the piece.

3. Material

The material used to make the teapot was Yixing clay, known for its properties:

• Thermal conductivity: Clay expands heat, which helps tea brew properly.
• Porosity: The clay structure allows the teapot to “breathe” and improve the taste of tea with each subsequent brewing.

Interesting facts

• Creator Shi Dabin: Shi Dabin is considered one of the elegant masters of Yixing pottery. His work formed the basis for many classic teapot shapes, including the Tiliang.
• Delicate balance: The kettle creates a sense of harmony and balance: the massive contrast handle creates a light and smooth body, creating a visual play
• Golden Star Effect: The addition of sand particles to the clay and the firing process create golden flecks on the surface of the teapot, making each piece stand out.
• Usage in Ming and Qing Dynasties: The teapot is used both in daily life and in tea ceremonies, including the social status of the owner.

Role in modern culture

Today, the Dabin Tiliang teapot remains an important symbol of the highest tea culture and art. It is used in the following cases:

• Traditional Tea Tools: The teapot is ideal for brewing high-quality teas such as pu-erh and oolong due to its warm characteristics and porous clay.
• Collectibility: Works by Ming Dynasty and modern classical Dabin Tiliang masters are highly prized at auctions and among collectors.
• Contemporary Creativity: Contemporary potters draw inspiration from the Tilian form, creating new variations while maintaining the classic proportions.
• Interior element: Thanks to its artistic value and harmonious forms, the teapot serves as an interior decoration and provides aesthetic pleasure.

The Dabin Tiliang teapot is more than just a functional object; it is a symbol of Chinese art and philosophy. Its unique design, created by Shi Dabin during the Ming Dynasty, continues to inspire craftsmen and lovers of cultural culture to this day. The peculiarities of its shape, the balance between massiveness and grace, and the unusual texture make it a true work of art.

Using the Dabin Tiliang teapot in a tea form not only allows you to reveal the taste and aroma of tea, but also immerses you in an atmosphere of harmony and contemplation. This teapot remains a bridge between the past and the present, preserving the traditions of the old culture and inspiring a new generation of masters.