Japanese Gilt Iron Glaze "Tiliang" Teapot

Essential Info

Artistic Insight

This exquisite teapot, christened the “Midnight Iron Lotus Pot,” is a fine example of Japanese craftsmanship, featuring a unique “Tiliang” shape and an iron glaze that gives it a distinctive, almost metallic sheen. The pot’s body is robust and crafted from high-quality stoneware, giving it substantial weight and an earthy texture that feels grounding in the hand.

In terms of craftsmanship, the “Midnight Iron Lotus Pot” is notable for its iron glaze finish, which creates a dark, lustrous surface reminiscent of a starless night sky. This glazing technique involves applying a layer of iron-rich compound to the stoneware before firing, which reacts with the clay at high temperatures to produce a deep, rich color and a slight sheen that is both beautiful and durable. The handle of the pot is crafted from refined metal, wrapped in a woven material for comfort and aesthetic contrast, enhancing both its functionality and its visual appeal.

The teapot draws its name and inspiration from the ancient Japanese tale of the Iron Lotus, a mythical flower said to bloom at the bottom of remote mountain lakes, visible only under the moonlight. According to legend, a craftsman named Sato Yorihito once stumbled upon one of these blooms during a nighttime journey. Captivated by its mysterious beauty, he returned to his workshop and endeavored to capture its essence in his pottery, leading to the creation of the “Midnight Iron Lotus Pot.”

This teapot is more than just a vessel for brewing tea; it embodies a piece of folklore and carries a piece of the mystical serenity of the Iron Lotus with it. Perfect for those who appreciate the depth of traditional craftsmanship fused with cultural storytelling, the “Midnight Iron Lotus Pot” is an essential addition to any collection, offering both aesthetic pleasure and a tactile connection to Japanese artisanal history.