「南瓜壶 · Autumn Gourd」 — 780ml Handmade Yixing Purple Clay Teapot (Zhu Mud · Sculptural Pumpkin Form · Large-Capacity Folk Artisan Work)

🏺 Table of Contents

• 💎 Name & Description
• ✨ Product Overview
• 🧘 Cultural & Craft Legacy
• 🔩 Material, Craft & Form Geometry
• 🍵 Brewing Character & Use Considerations
• 🏡 Styling, Space & Use Cases
• 🧴 Care & Maintenance
• 💬 FAQ

💎 Name & Description

「南瓜壶 · Autumn Gourd」 — 780ml Handmade Yixing Purple Clay Teapot (Zhu Mud · Sculptural Pumpkin Form · Large-Capacity Folk Artisan Work)
The Autumn Gourd 南瓜壶 is a 780ml Yixing teapot sculpted from raw ore Zhu Ni (朱泥), designed in the form of a ripened pumpkin with curling vines, carved leaves, and a stem-shaped lid. Entirely handmade by folk artisans, this large-capacity teapot is a celebration of abundance and seasonal beauty. Its generous volume and festive form make it ideal for family-style Gongfu brewing, cultural gatherings, or as a statement piece in a traditional tea setting.

Design Highlight: The teapot’s body is segmented like a pumpkin, with sculpted botanical details that wrap around the form. The spout and handle mimic curling tendrils, while the lid is crowned with a stem-like knob—each element hand-carved to evoke the vitality of autumn harvest.

✨ Product Overview

🧘 Cultural & Craft Legacy

南瓜之象 | The Pumpkin Symbol
In Chinese folk culture, pumpkins symbolize abundance, fertility, and auspiciousness. Their round, full form and many seeds represent prosperity and family harmony, making them a popular motif in seasonal and celebratory teaware.

朱泥之韵 | The Charm of Zhu Ni Clay
Zhu Ni is a rare, high-shrinkage red Zisha clay known for its vibrant hue, fine texture, and excellent aroma-enhancing properties. It is especially favored for expressive sculptural forms and fragrant teas.

民艺之美 | The Beauty of Folk Craft
This teapot is shaped and carved entirely by hand, with each vine, leaf, and curve reflecting the artisan’s deep connection to nature and tradition.

🔩 Material, Craft & Form Geometry

Material · Raw Ore Zhu Ni (朱泥)

• Symbolism: Abundance · Warmth · Celebration
• Emotional Resonance: Evokes the joy of harvest and the comfort of shared tea
• Affirmation: “When I pour from this vessel, I offer joy in every cup.”

Craftsmanship

• Fully handmade by folk artisans
• Sculpted pumpkin segments, vines, and leaves
• Smooth, unglazed surface for optimal tea interaction

Form Geometry

• Body: Rounded, segmented pumpkin shape with botanical carvings
• Mouth: Wide opening for easy filling and cleaning
• Lid: Stem-shaped knob with snug fit
• Spout: Curved vine-like form for smooth pouring
• Handle: Sculpted to resemble a curling tendril
• Filter: Mesh hole strainer at the spout base

🍵 Brewing Character & Use Considerations

Best Suited For

• Pu’er (Shou & Sheng)
• Dahongpao
• Tie Guanyin
• Roasted Oolongs
• Fragrant Black Teas

Brewing Performance

• Heat Retention: Excellent for large-volume infusions
• Aroma Enhancement: Clay breathes with the tea, releasing fragrance gradually
• Mouthfeel: Softens tannins, enhances clarity and depth

Brewing Notes

• Preheat before use to stabilize temperature
• Ideal for 4–6 person Gongfu sessions or festive tea gatherings

🏡 Styling, Space & Use Cases

Daily Use

• Best for family-style brewing or shared tea moments
• Easy to handle despite its sculptural form

Ritual Moments

• A festive companion for seasonal tea rituals, harvest celebrations, or storytelling
• Enhances the atmosphere of traditional or rustic tea settings

Interior Styling

• Complements folk, rustic, or nature-inspired interiors
• A sculptural centerpiece for tea tables, altars, or display shelves

Gifting Potential

• A joyful gift for tea lovers, families, or those who appreciate symbolic design
• Suitable for Mid-Autumn Festival, housewarmings, or cultural holidays

🧴 Care & Maintenance

• Exclusive Use: Dedicate to one tea type to cultivate a consistent patina
• Cleaning: Rinse with warm water only; avoid soaps or abrasives
• Drying: Air dry naturally, inverted on a clean cloth or wooden rack
• Patina Development: With time, the surface will develop a soft, glowing sheen—each brew adding to its quiet history

💬 FAQ

1. What is the meaning of the pumpkin shape?
   It symbolizes abundance, joy, and seasonal harmony in Chinese culture.
2. Is this teapot functional or decorative?
   Both. It is fully functional for Gongfu brewing and also serves as a sculptural art piece.
3. What teas are best suited for this teapot?
   Pu’er, Dahongpao, Tie Guanyin, roasted oolongs, and fragrant black teas.
4. Is the teapot glazed inside?
   No. It is unglazed to allow the clay to interact naturally with the tea.
5. Can I use this teapot for green or white teas?
   It’s not ideal, as the heat retention may overpower delicate teas.
6. Is this teapot beginner-friendly?
   Yes. Its size and built-in filter make it easy to use for group brewing.
7. Will the color change over time?
   Yes. With regular use, the clay will develop a deeper, more lustrous patina.
8. Is this teapot dishwasher-safe?
   No. Always hand rinse with warm water to preserve the clay’s properties.
9. Can I brew different teas in the same teapot?
   For best results, dedicate it to one tea type to avoid flavor crossover.
10. Is the lid tight-fitting?
    Yes. The handmade process ensures a snug, balanced lid fit.
11. Does it come with a certificate or mark?
    This model may include a base stamp; check the underside for artisan markings.
12. Is this teapot suitable for travel?
    Due to its size and sculptural form, it’s best used in a stable home setting.
13. How should I store this teapot?
    In a dry, well-ventilated area, away from strong odors or moisture.
14. What makes this teapot unique?
    Its pumpkin-inspired form, Zhu Ni clay body, and large capacity make it a joyful and rare piece.
15. Why is this teapot ideal for gatherings?
    Its generous volume and festive design make it perfect for shared tea moments and seasonal celebrations.