Zisha Dragon King Tea Pet

This Purple Clay Dragon King Tea Pet is a distinctive presence on the tea table, artfully blending traditional purple clay craftsmanship with the majestic image of the Dragon King. Crafted by Li Jingyi, daughter of Gu Yanxin, it carries the legacy of craftsmanship and unique artistic charm, making it an excellent choice for both personal use and as a gift.

First, it's important to note that purple clay tea pets are small ceramic artworks made from purple clay, either by hand or with molds. They are often placed on tea trays, serving both decorative purposes and providing enjoyment through handling. Similar to purple clay teapots in their production process but with more diverse shapes, this Dragon King tea pet perfectly embodies the integration of purple clay craftsmanship and tea culture.

1. Design

The Purple Clay Dragon King Tea Pet is modeled after the Dragon King. It sits in a meditative pose with hands clasped, exuding an air of solemnity and dignity. The head features prominent dragon-like horns and detailed facial features that capture the essence of the Dragon King's might. The texture of the clothing is carefully crafted, adding to the overall sense of grandeur. Every design element reflects the combination of the Dragon King's imposing image and the unique aesthetic of purple clay art, making it a vivid representation of traditional culture.

2. Craftsmanship Details

In terms of craftsmanship, this tea pet is highly elaborate, showcasing exquisite traditional techniques.

- Hand-forming: Li Jingyi used techniques such as pinching, shaping, and carving to create the Dragon King's form. With tools like bamboo knives and steel needles, she meticulously refined the features—from the distinct contours of the horns to the fine scales on the face, each detail is vividly presented. Some tea pets may also have inscriptions or seals to enhance their artistic value, and this piece similarly reflects such careful attention to detail.

- Drying and refinement: After the initial forming, the tea pet is left to air-dry naturally for 1-2 days until it reaches a semi-hard state. During this period, any cracks are repaired and the surface is polished to ensure flawlessness, laying the foundation for its smooth texture.

- Firing process: It is then placed in a kiln and fired at a high temperature of 1100-1200℃ for about 10 hours, with the temperature adjusted according to the type of clay. This firing process not only enhances its sturdiness but also brings out the warm and smooth color of the purple clay.

- Post-processing: After firing, the tea pet undergoes polishing, and in some cases glazing or painting, to enhance its luster. The facial expressions, though somewhat solemn, are vividly sculpted, with the eyes and scales on the face meticulously detailed. The patterns on the body are also carefully rendered, enhancing the three-dimensional effect and the sense of luxury, all of which are testaments to the superb craftsmanship involved.

3. Material Quality

It is crafted from high-quality purple clay, sourced from purple clay mines in places like Huanglong Mountain, Yixing, including varieties such as purple clay, vermilion clay, and Duan clay. The raw material undergoes a rigorous process: weathering, crushing, sieving, and kneading with water to remove impurities, resulting in a fine and uniform texture. This ensures the clay is both sturdy and durable.

Purple clay has good air permeability and water absorption. Over time, as the tea pet absorbs tea water, its color will gradually change, becoming more lustrous and moist. It will develop a unique warm sheen, with the color becoming full and delicate after being nourished by tea. This "nurturing" process is where the value of purple clay tea pets lies—they grow alongside tea lovers, becoming a unique companion in tea ceremonies. As a combination of practical utensil and elegant artifact, it also serves as a carrier of good wishes, making it a special and cherished item on the tea table.