Translation and identification: the literal Chinese name å°ę±ē¦ reads as "small Han tile." This exact form name is not widely standardized in published typologies, so its precise historical lineage is ambiguous without more provenance or imagery. Below is a careful, general description and context.
Description (English, brief history and shape note)
Names that liken teapots to everyday objects or ancient artifacts are common in Chinese teapot-making. A name invoking "Han" and "tile" suggests inspiration from Han-period roof tiles or a Han-style aesthetic rather than a strict archaeological replica. Teapots of this kind are typically modern or traditional studio pieces that echo classical forms: potters borrow motifs from architecture and antiquities to create compact vessels suited to the gongfu brewing tradition.
Shape note
As the name implies, the form likely emphasizes a low, compact silhouette with a slightly arched or flat top reminiscent of a tile, often with clean planar surfaces and restrained ornament. Expect a modest capacity, a short spout and a balanced handle for single-session brewing. Material and exact proportions vary by maker; many similarly named pieces are executed in unglazed studio clays (e.g., Yixing-style zisha) but that cannot be assumed for every example.
Wood-fired handmade Yixing teapot made from Duanni clay sourced from the original Huanglongshan mine. Xu Shun Wei.
