The exact designation "龙纹秦权壶" is somewhat specific and not universally standardized in catalogues, so this description treats it as a Qin‑quan (秦权) style teapot decorated with dragon (龙纹) motifs and gives a safe, general historical context.
Brief history: Teapots of the Qin‑quan type take their inspiration from ancient Chinese balance‑weights and small ritual bronzes, a naming practice that became common in later ceramic and Yixing potting traditions. Small, object‑referencing forms like this were especially popular among Yixing (Zisha) makers from the late Ming into the Qing dynasty and remain a favorite with collectors today. Dragon decoration has a long history in Chinese arts as an imperial and auspicious motif; on teapots it signals status, protection, and artistic flourish.
Shape note: The Qin‑quan form is typically compact and low‑profile—a squat, slightly flattened body with a flat or gently domed lid, short straight spout and a modest C‑shaped handle—evoking the solid, weight‑like silhouette of ancient measures. Dragon ornamentation may be incised, relief‑applied or modeled onto the surface, and is often worked in the same clay (unglazed) or with subtle surface treatments. These teapots are generally small, ideal for gongfu brewing, and prized for their balance of form, tactile solidity, and decorative detail.
Wood-fired handmade Yixing teapot made from Duanni clay sourced from the original Huanglongshan mine. Xu Shun Wei.
