Qianlong reign (1736-1795), Qing dynasty
This artifact, resembling lacquerware but actually made of purple clay, is a teapot crafted from the rustic yet refined Yixing zisha clay. Upon removing the lid or inspecting the base, the natural clay body becomes apparent despite its lavish lacquered exterior. The entire exterior, except for the interior and base, is decorated in a luxurious lacquer finish, giving it a noble and elegant appearance. The teapot body is adorned with miscellaneous treasures such as books, swords, Chinese lutes, chessboards, fans, and sheng instruments, all set against a brocade-patterned background. The base bears a gold-infilled seal mark reading “Made during the Qianlong reign of the Great Qing dynasty.” Yixing zisha teapots originate from the kilns in Jiangsu Province. Considering that carved lacquerware for the Qianlong court was often produced in the Suzhou region, it is plausible that this teapot’s crafting and lacquering were completed there before being presented to the imperial court by officials. The teapot’s exceptionally clean interior, devoid of any tea residue, raises questions about whether it was ever used. It may have been intended purely for aesthetic appreciation rather than for practical use, emphasizing its visual charm and the artistry of its design.