Clay: Zhu Ni (朱泥)
Shape: Pao Gua (匏瓜)
Capacity: 220ml
Craftsmanship: Semi-handmade (半手工)
Recommended Tea: PuEr, Aged White, Oolong

?? Overview:
This Pao Gua (匏瓜) teapot is crafted from authentic Yixing Zhu Ni (朱泥) — a vibrant red clay prized for its excellent heat responsiveness and aroma-enhancing qualities. The pot’s shape is inspired by the calabash gourd, a traditional Chinese symbol of blessing, longevity, and balance.

Its compact size and clay properties make it an ideal choice for daily Gongfu-style brewing, especially for teas with deeper complexity like PuErh (熟普/生普), aged white, or medium-roast Oolongs.

?? About the Shape – “Pao Gua” 匏瓜
The Pao Gua (匏瓜) shape mimics the natural lines of a gourd — full and rounded, tapering gently toward the top. It is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, designed to provide:

? Stable brewing temperature

? Strong internal convection

? A balanced center of gravity

In Chinese culture, the calabash is associated with healing, protection, and prosperity, making this shape not just elegant, but meaningful.

?? About the Clay – Zhu Ni (朱泥)
Zhu Ni is a premium, high-contraction clay type found in small seams in Yixing’s Huanglong Mountain. Its characteristics include:

?? Bright vermilion-red hue after firing

?? Excellent aroma retention

? Quick heat response — perfect for short steeps

??? Low porosity: seals in flavor, enhances tea oils

With regular use, Zhu Ni teapots develop a beautiful natural patina and deepen in color, becoming more refined over time.

? Tea Pairing Recommendation:
This teapot pairs exceptionally well with:

Shou PuEr (熟普洱) – brings out mellow sweetness

Sheng PuEr (生普洱) – preserves clarity and liveliness

Aged White Tea (老白茶) – smooths bitterness and brightens aroma

Roasted Oolongs – balances roast tones with body

Zhu Ni’s fast heat response makes it easy to control steeping, especially in quick infusions.

?? Semi-Handmade Craftsmanship (半手工)
Use genuien zisha clay, this piece is shaped by hand with partial use of traditional molds — a method that balances precision and affordability, making it:

? Functional for daily use

? More accessible than full-handmade pieces

? Still artist-stamped and fired to professional Gongfu standards

? Why You’ll Love It:
? Classic gourd shape – rounded, symbolic, ergonomic

? Authentic Zhu Ni – enhances aroma and mouthfeel

? Great for everyday use – PuEr, aged teas, or oolongs

? Develops natural luster with use

? A perfect first teapot — or a practical daily brewer for seasoned drinkers