This is a new batch of clay that we found recently, a batch of aged Zini clay similar in composition to clays found in early Qing Dynasty pots. We've given this batch of clay the name 'Daheng Zini' to differentiate from other Zini batches we've stocked in the past and as a tribute to the zini clays used by the Qing Dynasty potter Shao Daheng.
There are black spots (Tie Rong 铁熔) that erupt from the clay due to iron particles melting while firing and naturally occurring particles within the clay. Modern clay processors might typically acid wash the clay to remove these particles, but we prefer to process in the traditional manner and use stoneground, pure clay for these pots without any adulteration or chemical processing.
We've also been making some subtle changes to our Shui Ping shape pots, slightly more robust handles, subtle curves and widening of the spout and refinement of the shape of the lid and body. These adjustments are almost imperceptible, but work together to create a harmonious whole in this simple, but refined classic shape.
This pot is half-handmade - we created a form for the body and lid to allow the potter to recreate these shapes accurately and with regularity. This also helps to keep the price down a lot more than fully-handmade pots. The walls are medium-thin and the pour is fast and smooth.
EDXRF analysis of clay provided also, showing no additives were used in the clay
