'Shi Piao' Zi Ni Yixing Zisha Teapot

DESCRIPTION: The long-awaited flat-capped stone ladle (Shi Piao) has arrived! Handmade by Li Hong Yi, and carved by Shi Wei. The plum blossom carved throughout the pot is excellent in design. A plum blossom stretches upward from the bottom of the pot to the right side of the pot; a plum blossom then stretches across the reverse side of the pot body, with a plum branch that stretches to the front of the pot and across the lid; a cluster of large blooming flowers, or scattered bracts on the branches, enforce a strong sense of space. MATERIAL: Zi Ni (紫泥); the iron oxide content is high in this raw ore, and is superior in brightness. The raw ore is hard and stone-like, with a green tone of light grass. The kiln temperature to bake this teapot is slightly lower (approx. 1100-1400 C), suitable for making small pieces of tea wares. The 100 ml size is lovely and perfectly suitable for solo brewing.   DIFFICULTY: Regulating the kiln temperature is an extremely sensitive endeavor; if the kiln