Zisha Little Novice Monk Tea Pet

This Purple Clay Little Novice Monk Tea Pet is a charming addition to any tea table, masterfully integrating traditional purple clay craftsmanship with the endearing image of a little novice monk. Crafted by Li Jingyi (daughter of Gu Yanxin), it is an ideal choice for both personal enjoyment and gifting.

First of all, it should be noted 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 playful enjoyment. Their production process is similar to that of purple clay teapots, but their shapes are more diverse. This Little Novice Monk tea pet is a vivid embodiment of the integration of purple clay craftsmanship and tea culture.

1. Design

The Purple Clay Little Novice Monk Tea Pet is designed based on the image of a little novice monk. Standing with hands clasped in a prayer gesture, it exudes an aura of purity and serenity. Its round head and chubby cheeks, along with the simple and flowing robes, create a look that is both cute and tranquil, bringing a touch of Buddhist - inspired peace to the tea - tasting experience.

2. Craftsmanship Details

In terms of craftsmanship, this tea pet is a testament to fine detailing.

- Hand - forming: Li Jingyi shapes the form of the little novice monk through pinching, sculpting, carving and other techniques, and then uses tools such as bamboo knives and steel needles to refine the facial features and textures. The lines of the folds in the monk's robe are smooth and graceful, accurately presenting the drape of the fabric, which fully demonstrates the craftsman's mastery of details. Some tea pets will be inscribed with characters or stamped with seals to enhance their artistic appeal, and every carving in this work also implies such ingenuity.

- Natural air - drying and trimming: After the initial forming, the tea pet needs to be naturally air - dried for 1 - 2 days until it reaches a semi - hard state. During this period, cracks will be carefully repaired and the surface will be polished to ensure that there are no defects, laying the foundation for its delicate texture.

- High - temperature firing: It is then placed in a kiln and fired at a high temperature of 1100 - 1200℃ for about 10 hours. The temperature is adjusted according to the characteristics of the clay, and after firing, it has a warm and smooth color like jade.

- Post - processing: After firing, it undergoes polishing, and some are also glazed or painted to make the tea pet more lustrous. The facial expression of the little novice monk, with eyes gently closed and a smile that seems to hold a hint of wisdom, is exquisitely carved and vivid. Every curve and line on the body is carefully shaped, making the whole tea pet exude delicacy and agility.

3. Material Quality

It is made of top - notch purple clay, with raw materials selected from purple clay mines in places such as Huanglong Mountain, Yixing (including purple clay, vermilion clay, Duan clay, etc.). The raw materials are weathered, crushed, sieved, and then kneaded with water to remove impurities, making the clay fine and uniform, with a delicate and smooth texture as well as sturdiness and durability.

Purple clay has excellent air permeability and water absorption. Over time, as the tea pet absorbs tea water, it will gradually change: the color will become more saturated, the surface will be more lustrous, and a unique warm patina will form. After being nourished by pouring tea water, the color will be more full and delicate. Purple clay tea pets combine purple clay craftsmanship with tea culture. They are not only practical utensils but also elegant playthings that embody good wishes. Their value lies in the process of "nurturing" — they grow together with tea lovers, becoming a unique companion in tea affairs, and adding a unique charm of cherish to the tea table.