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How to Tell Age of Yixing Teapot? – Know the Richness of Old Teapots

The teapots come in variety which includes ceramic teapots, glass teapots and the very traditional and classy, yixing teapots. Do you have a yixing teapot that you’re not sure of the age of? In this blog post, we will give you some tips on how to tell the age of your yixing pot. Keep reading to learn more!

How to tell age of yixing teapot

How to Tell Age of Yixing Teapot?

To determine the age of a yixing teapot, you will need to look at the markings on the bottom of the pot. The markings will usually include the year in which the pot was made. If there is no year listed, then you can try to date the pot by its style.

Yixing teapots can be broadly divided into two categories: those made before the 20th century, and those made after. Pots made before the 20th century are generally more simple in design, while those made after are often more ornate. Therefore, if you see a yixing teapot with intricate detailing, it is likely that it was made after the year 1900.

To date an Yixing teapot, you will need to consider its size, shape, and weight. The older the pot, the more likely it is to be larger and heavier. The clay used to make Yixing teapots also changes over time, so pots made with newer clay will be a different color than those made with older clay. If you can’t find any obvious clues, you may need to consult an expert.

Signs to Identify Old Yixing Teapot

There are several signs to identify the old yixing teapots in reference to its markings, shapes, weight, etc. Let us see the list of these signs :

  • Look at the bottom of the pot to see if there are any maker’s marks or other identifying features. If you can’t find any obvious clues, you may need to consult an expert.
  • Yixing teapots made before the 20th century are generally more simple in design, while those made after are often more ornate.
  • To date an Yixing teapot, you will need to consider its size, shape, and weight. The older the pot, the more likely it is to be larger and heavier.
  • The clay used to make Yixing teapots also changes over time, so pots made with newer clay will be a different color than those made with older clay.
  • The handles of the teapot also give an indication of the age. The newer the teapot, the more likely it is to have two handles. Older Yixing teapots often have a single handle, and this is usually made of bamboo or wood.
  • The spout of the teapot is also a good indicator of age. Older teapots often have a more curved spout, while newer ones tend to have a straighter spout.
  • The lid of the teapot is another clue to its age. Older teapots often have a simple knob on the top, while newer ones may have an ornate finial.

How to Maintain Yixing Teapot?

If you are still having trouble dating your Yixing teapot, you may need to consult an expert. There are many experts who specialize in Yixing teapots, and they will be able to give you a more accurate estimate of the pot’s age.

As any tea lover knows, Yixing teapots are prized for their ability to enhance the flavor of tea. Made of porous clay, they absorb the oils from the tea leaves, which in turn creates a richer and more robust flavor. However, Yixing teapots require special care in order to maintain their beauty and functionality. Here are some tips on how to properly care for your Yixing teapot:

  • Rinse the pot with hot water before each use. This will help to remove any residue that may have built up on the surface of the pot.
  • After each use, thoroughly clean the pot with a soft brush and mild soap. Be sure to rinse away all of the soap before storing the pot.
  • Never put your Yixing teapot in the dishwasher or microwave. The harsh detergents and heat can damage the porous clay.
  • Store your Yixing teapot in a dry place when not in use. If you live in a humid climate, it is best to keep your pot in a covered container to prevent it from absorbing moisture from the air.

By following these simple tips, you can enjoy your Yixing teapot for a longer period of time.

Parting Thoughts on How to Tell the Age of Yixing Teapot?

Well, now you are aware of how to determine whether your Yixing pot is old or newly made. Also, to store your yixing teapot for a longer period of time, you definitely need to wash and store them well. The older the pot, the better the quality of the yixing teapot.

 

About the author

Daisy W

I'm Daisy Watson from Darjeeling. I have completed my masters in Tea Husbandry. I am passionate tea lover and TeaTrivia is a platform to share my knowledge regarding tea varieties, differences, accessories, recipes, etc. Keep reading to know more about your tea!!

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