The word "Shipiao" means Stone Dipper. This design is my all-time favorite.

It belongs to a style called 古拙, which can be translated as "old and dull". A more meaningful interpretation may be "rustic simplicity".

The shape of the design resembles a piece of stone. Broad at the bottom and narrow on top, it feels stable. The bridge on top is tiny but highly symbolic.

The simpler the design, the harder it is to make. Within the confine of simplicity that potter has to convey a spirit of conciseness, elegance, rationality and captivation.

From this point of view, I think the maker of this pot - Zhu Xinnan （朱新南） has really done well. It is one of his prize-winning design. It won him a bronze medal in the 4th China National Level Artistic Competition.

The clay comes from the original clay mine of Yixing County: Huanglong Shan (Yellow Dragon Mountain). It is a high quality purple clay (Zini) that has been left to weather for 25 years before being crafted.

It has a naturally subtle, jade-like luster that can feel warm and friendly with repeated use. It feels a bit like an old friend greeting with a smile.

HQ has an identical pot like this. According to him, even without the initial intensive seasoning, it takes just one week for this pot to acquire high level of smoothness and luster.

This pot comes highly recommended. We really feel it offers rare quality and excellent value of money

This pot holds 340 milliliters and is suitable for 4 people drinking. It comes with 2 Yixing cups.

One characteristic of this pot is its large surface area. The body has much artistic value.

The calligraphy has been engraved by highly regarded Senior Engraver Wang Jianzi (汪健字). It says:

一生清福只在碗炉茗烟中

The 11 words express the sentiment of a tea lover, which can be translated as:

A lifetime of ease and carefree exists only in the smoke and steam of tea kettle and tea cups.

You can also find Mr Zhu's seal at the bottom of the pot. The four characters says "Zhu Xin Nan Make".

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