Yixing Zisha Teapot 300cc – Purple Clay

The clay does the talking here; the shape just gives it a voice. A 300cc capacity puts it squarely in the range for small gatherings of two or three.

This one is made of purple clay that brews a softer, rounder cup than porcelain. Handmade pots vary slightly piece to piece; yours will be one of a kind in the small details, and the small comforts add up. Ball-filter strainer behind the spout handles fine leaves the traditional way — simple, and exactly right. What I like: compact size keeps water hot and opens leaves fast. Never use soap on unglazed clay; hot water and a soft cloth are enough, which is exactly what you want in a daily brewer. Yixing clay softens harsh edges in tea, rounding out each steeping; it is the kind of detail you only get from handmade work.

Keep it close to the kettle; it will earn the spot. The pot is ready when you are — just add leaves and hot water.