Hong Pi Long Xiao Ying Hu Teapot – 195 ml Zhao Zhuang Hong Ni

Product Description

This Hong Pi Long Xiao Ying Hu teapot marries the cheerful Xiao Ying (“laughing cherry”) form with one of Yixing’s rarest clays. The Xiao Ying shape is characterised by a rounded, pot‑bellied body that gradually tapers towards a small mouth; the spout and handle sweep upward in a graceful curve, and the lid knob is shaped like a cherry bud. From the side the silhouette suggests a smiling face, giving this design a joyful, auspicious quality. Rich incised lines encircle the shoulder and lid, adding subtle detail without interrupting the overall harmony. Our Xiao Ying teapot is crafted from Zhao Zhuang Hong Ni, a scarce red clay known as Hong Pi Long. The clay originates from a tiny seam between Huanglong Mountain and Baoshan in Yixing; the layer is only 10–30 cm thick and almost exhausted, making genuine Hong Pi Long pots extremely rare.

Hong Pi Long contains high levels of quartz and mica, which give the finished pot excellent breathability and a subtle sandy texture. Its porosity allows it to extract the complex aromas of pu‑erh and semi‑fermented teas while softening bitterness. With regular use the clay gradually turns a deeper red and develops a glossy patina. Because of its loose structure and high shrinkage rate, Hong Pi Long is notoriously difficult to work with; large pieces often crack during forming and firing, so a 195 ml Xiao Ying made from this clay is a rare achievement. The finished teapot has a smooth reddish‑brown surface and a built‑in multi‑hole filter to ensure a clean pour.

Like all Yixing zisha, Hong Pi Long clay has a microporous structure that absorbs tea oils and minerals during brewing, creating a personalised seasoning layer. The clay also retains heat well, keeping tea warm across multiple infusions. The 195 ml capacity makes this pot ideal for personal gongfu tea sessions or sharing a few cups with a friend. Use it for pu‑erh, oolong or fragrant black teas to appreciate the clay’s ability to highlight aroma and smoothness. Over time the cheerful Xiao Ying profile and the deepening hue of Hong Pi Long clay will make this teapot a cherished companion in your tea practice.

For care tips and more information about Yixing clay, please read our guides on how to clean a Yixing teapot and the Yixing purple clay guide.