Zhou Pan Teapot

The Zhou Pan (Compass) teapot was designed by Chen Mansheng when he served as the magistrate of Liyang. Inspired by the luopan (compass), its name embodies the idea of cyclical return and righteous beginning—a metaphor for the harmony between flexibility and integrity in human conduct. This faithful recreation captures the essence of the original: a perfectly rounded body, robust yet elegant, with hidden strength beneath its soft contours.

• ▸ Perfectly round silhouette The body is entirely circular, with a plump, rounded contour that feels soft yet carries a hidden structural strength—every chamfer and corner is executed with meticulous precision.
• ▸ Concentric lid rhythm A raised circular ring on the lid surface, together with the lid edge, creates layered concentric circles. The cylindrical central knob serves as the visual focal point, drawing the eye inward.
• ▸ Spout & handle A one‑curve spout with a flattened, round profile and a ring‑shaped handle. The base rests on three small feet shaped like milk nipples, which is why the early form was also called the “Three‑Foot Milk Teapot.”
• ▸ Front inscription “Gazing at the mountain, looking down to listen to the spring — delighting in the Way.” A scholar’s reflection on finding joy in nature and simplicity.
• ▸ Reverse carving & shoulder motif The reverse side bears the phrase “Han Mountain’s Remnant Tile”, accompanied by a瓦当 (eaves tile) pattern carved along the shoulder. The shoulder also features an archaic bronze‑script (large seal) inscription: “Treasure for a hundred generations of descendants; let honor spread across ten thousand directions.” This masterfully blends the epigraphic legacy of ancient bronze vessels into the teapot design.
• ▸ Cinnabar Clay character The clay fires to a dark reddish‑brown, densely packed with fine golden duan clay particles. It offers excellent heat retention and develops a rich patina with use.