The name 小扭盖汉瓦 can be read literally as “small twisted‑lid Han‑tile.” The exact, canonical teapot form indicated by this compound name is not fully certain from the term alone, so the following is a careful, general description based on how such words are normally used in Chinese teapot nomenclature.
Brief history: Many classic Chinese teapot shapes are named after everyday objects, architectural elements or historical motifs (e.g., fruits, gourds, tiles, or dynasty names). References to “Han” often evoke Han‑dynasty decorative motifs or simply a style inspired by ancient forms; “瓦” (tile) typically indicates a body whose profile or surface recalls roof tiles or tile fragments. Small, named forms like this are commonly found among Yixing (zisha) and other Chinese studio teapots produced from the late Ming/Qing into the 20th century, made for gongfu tea practice and collectors.
Shape note: Expect a modest, compact teapot with a low, slightly arched or ridged body suggesting a tile‑like profile, and a lid topped by a small twisted or spiral knob (扭盖). The spout and handle are likely restrained and functional, keeping overall proportions compact for precise, high‑temperature brewing. Exact proportions and decorative details will vary by maker.
Wood-fired handmade Yixing teapot made from Duanni clay sourced from the original Huanglongshan mine. Xu Shun Wei.
