Yellow Clay Stone Ladle Teapot - Golden Toad # 96171

The Shi Piao teapot has the form's characteristic low, broad body, straight-sided lid and cleanly projecting spout. Its sturdy loop handle and wide opening make it comfortable for repeated gongfu pouring, while the golden toad and dragon reliefs add sculptural detail.

Shi Piao means stone ladle, describing the shape's simple, stable silhouette. It belongs to the established Yixing repertoire and is traditionally used for concentrated tea brewing, with the lid lifted or held in place as infusions are poured into serving cups.

Yixing, Jiangsu, is celebrated for zisha clay, shown here in a warm yellow-brown colour with a fine granular surface and unglazed carved decoration. Rinse after use, remove the lid and let the pot dry thoroughly before putting it away.