Yixing Zisha Teapot 160cc – Purple Clay – Siting

Some teapots ask to be admired. This one asks to be used. At 160cc, it is sized for solo gongfu sessions.

The clay is purple clay, the Yixing standard prized for its balanced, forgiving character. Yixing zisha clay is famously porous, letting the pot absorb tea oils and mellow the brew, which is exactly what you want in a daily brewer. What I like: lid and body were clearly made for each other — the fit tells you. It turns out ball-filter strainer behind the spout handles fine leaves the traditional way. It packs easily for travel; small pots are the sturdiest travelers — a small thing, but it matters every session. In practice, traditional yixing clay needs no glaze; the material is the finish.

The pot is ready when you are — just add leaves and hot water. Your future self, mid-gongfu-session, will approve of this choice. A gift that says you understand someone's tea habit.