The name 紫砂水平壶 (zǐshā shuǐpíng hú — "zisha horizontal/level pot") appears to refer to a Yixing (zisha) teapot form; however the exact historical standard for a "水平壶" is not universally defined, so the following gives a safe, general context.
Brief history: Zisha (purple clay) teapots originated in the Yixing region of Jiangsu province and became widely prized from the late Ming into the Qing dynasty. Artisans developed many named forms—often inspired by everyday objects, natural motifs, or functional ideas—and refined them over centuries. Zisha wares are unglazed, porous to a degree, and valued for their heat retention and for seasoning: repeated use builds a subtle patina that interacts with tea. Many historic and modern pieces follow traditional proportions and close attention to balance, spout flow, and lid fit.
Shape note: The literal "horizontal/level" descriptor suggests a low, broad or squat silhouette with a relatively wide body and a flat or gently domed profile. Such a form emphasizes stability, a low center of gravity, and an understated, horizontal visual balance; it is typically comfortable to pour and suited to concentrated, aromatic teas where controlled infusion and heat retention matter.
Wood-fired handmade Yixing teapot made from Duanni clay sourced from the original Huanglongshan mine. Xu Shun Wei.
