Yinyin Teapot

The name Yinyin  pays homage to the eminent late‑Ming / early‑Qing Zen master Yinyuan Longqi, who traveled to Japan, spreading Buddhism and bringing with him a large round teapot by the legendary Yixing master Shi Dabin. That pot became a witness to Sino‑Japanese cultural exchange. This rendition by Chen Zun revives that spirit through masterful round‑ware craftsmanship.

• ▸ Historical resonance The teapot’s name echoes Yinyuan Longqi’s cultural bridge between China and Japan. Chen Zun’s design honors that legacy through pure round‑ware expression.
• ▸ Zisha Huakuai clay This aged clay contains natural sand lumps within the Zisha base. It feels warm and slightly granular, with scattered sand tones that develop rich, layered patina over time – increasingly antique with use.
• ▸ Single‑pearl body (一粒珠) The shape resembles a large pearl: full, round, and taut. The flattened round knob has a tiny pinhole. The lid and mouth fit seamlessly – every line is a smooth arc, free of stiff angles, embodying antique rustic charm.
• ▸ Inward three‑curve spout (sān wān liú nèi shōu) Unlike typical outward‑floating spouts, this one curves inward, hugging the rounded belly closely. Achieving this inward tension is demanding: too much and it looks rigid, too little and it feels slack. Chen Zun’s execution makes the pot appear full of spirit without being cumbersome.
• ▸ Ming (exposed) joints The spout and handle are attached using the exposed‑joint (ming jie) technique. The junctions are clean and crisp, with smooth transitions – every edge and corner is meticulously finished.
• ▸ Perfect for daily tea At 170 cc, it suits both solo gongfu and small gatherings. The round body promotes even leaf expansion; the inward spout ensures a controlled, precise pour. A teapot that excels in form, clay, craftsmanship, and spirit – worthy of both use and collection.