Yixing konvička - 200 ml

Yixing konvička - 200 ml

Yixing ceramics are mainly made from Zisha clay. This is a type of clay that is mined around the city of Yixing in the Chinese province of Jiangsu. Its use can be traced back to the Song dynasty, which was in power in China between 960 and 1279. This pottery is mainly used to make teapots, which are in most cases unglazed. Sometimes this clay is also called 'Purple Sand'.

After the actual extraction of Zisha clay, coarse impurities and other types of clay are removed. The clay is then dried in the sun to prepare it for subsequent crushing and grinding into powder, which is sifted through very dense bamboo screens. The resulting dust is then covered with fresh water and the excess water is again allowed to evaporate. Only after this process is the clay delivered to the potters, who continue to work with the clay. First, they knead the clay thoroughly to remove small air bubbles. Next comes the actual creation of the objects. The firing of this pottery takes place at significantly lower temperatures than, for example, porcelain, resulting in a much higher resistance to large temperature changes.

There are 3 types of clay from which teapots and cups are made:

Zisha - Dark brown earthenware, the most common type.
Zhuni - With a large admixture of iron, reddish brown stoneware. It is the most appreciated.
Duanni - Contains many different admixtures. For this reason, it can range in colour from beige to green and blue to black.

Positives of Yixing pottery include:

- High resistance to temperature changes,
- the ability to retain the aroma of the tea thanks to the microscopic pores, it is recommended to use one teapot for only one type of tea
- it should not be washed with detergents because of its ability to retain scents and odours

Before use: rinse the teapot in hot water and let dry completely before first use

Maintenance: do not use detergents, dishwasher. Clean by hand, with clean water, without chemicals. Do not clean with clean detergents. The teapot should be left to dry after each use. Ideally, specify the teapot for the specific type of tea for which it will always be used.