Introduction

The Duo Qiu Yixing teapot is a timeless design in Yixing pottery, known for its elegant spherical shape. The term “Duo Qiu” refers to a series of connected round shapes, with the body, lid, and knob harmoniously following this pattern. It’s one of the most iconic forms, especially beloved by collectors and tea enthusiasts for its simple yet sophisticated design.

Historical Story

The origin of the Duo Qiu teapot dates back centuries. It’s closely linked to the tradition of classical Chinese aesthetics, which values balance and proportion. The term “掇” (Duo) translates to “select” or “pick up,” while “球” (Qiu) means “ball.” This suggests that the form was a conscious selection of spherical shapes, stacked together according to precise artistic principles. Despite its apparent simplicity, it is one of the most technically challenging teapots to craft, making it a favorite among both potters and collectors.

Historically, many renowned Yixing potters have contributed to refining the Duo Qiu design. Three standout examples are Da Heng Duo Qiu, You Ting Duo Qiu, and Shou Zhen Duo Qiu—each representing a master’s artistic vision at different points in history.

Design of Duo Qiu Teapot

Da Heng Duo Qiu was crafted by the famous potter Shao Da Heng during the Qing Dynasty. He was known for his defiance of social norms and commitment to artistic integrity, as reflected in the bold yet balanced design of his teapots. The Da Heng version is characterized by a full-bodied, round shape with a slightly raised lid and a round knob. Its handle and spout add to its overall symmetry and functionality, making it a well-balanced piece that remains popular today.

The second significant version, You Ting Duo Qiu, was developed by Shao You Ting, who was inspired by the Da Heng design but introduced some subtle modifications. You Ting’s version features a more pronounced neck, giving the teapot a sleeker, more elongated appearance. This change made the design even more elegant and allowed for a stronger sense of flow from the lid to the spout. The handle in this version is also more tensioned, providing a better balance when pouring tea.

Shou Zhen Duo Qiu is the third classic variation, made by Cheng Shou Zhen, who was active in the late Qing period. Shou Zhen Duo Qiu is considered the pinnacle of this teapot form. His innovations brought the design to perfection by emphasizing the spherical nature of the pot. He crafted the teapot so that the body, lid, and knob align perfectly, creating the visual illusion of three overlapping spheres. This version is renowned for its flawless aesthetic balance and was recognized with international awards at expositions in Panama and Chicago, where its artistry stunned foreign audiences.

Aesthetic

The beauty of the Duo Qiu Yixing teapot lies not just in its shape but also in how that shape interacts with light and space. The spherical design creates a sense of movement and continuity, while also achieving perfect proportion. The teapot’s shape is a masterpiece of traditional Chinese aesthetic principles, such as balance, rhythm, and harmony.

From an artistic perspective, the craftsmanship of the Duo Qiu teapot follows the golden ratio, which gives it a natural, pleasing balance. Whether you’re looking at the relationship between the body and the lid or the proportion of the spout to the handle, everything is carefully calculated to maintain this harmony. The rounded form also makes it functional, as the spherical body helps maintain the temperature of the tea for longer periods.

In terms of usability, the Duo Qiu teapot is not only visually striking but also well-balanced when held, making it practical for Gongfu tea ceremonies. The rounded shape creates a smooth flow of tea when poured, ensuring a pleasant experience for both casual drinkers and connoisseurs alike.

Tea Suitable For Duo Qiu

The Duo Qiu Yixing teapot is perfect for brewing teas that require high temperatures, such as Pu-erh, Oolong, and Tieguanyin. Its distinctive design—featuring a large belly and small opening—helps retain heat and preserves the tea’s aroma for longer. This is especially beneficial when brewing Pu-erh tea, which requires boiling water due to its fully fermented nature. The teapot’s excellent heat retention ensures a slow release of the fragrance, making it an ideal choice for such tea types.

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