The Xiao Ying (“Smiling Cherry”) teapot is a beloved Yixing classic whose origins can be traced to the Ming dynasty. Its name comes from the body’s unique proportions: the squat, oblate belly narrows toward a round foot, while the spout and handle tilt upward, so that from the side the silhouette suggests a smiling face; the lid knob resembles a cherry. The design features broad shoulders, a constricted neck, a flat mouth rim and a curved spout, giving the pot a solid yet lively presence. In Chinese culture the smiling profile and cherry‑shaped knob convey joy and auspiciousness.
Our version holds 180 ml and is handcrafted from Cha Zhi Ji’s bronze‑grade purple clay, an entry‑level material in our five‑grade system. Bronze‑grade clay offers reliable aroma, mouthfeel and body at an accessible price. Skilled artisans form each pot by hand and fire it to a warm brown hue. A multi‑hole filter is built into the spout for a clean, even pour.
Yixing clay’s porous structure allows tea oils and minerals to be absorbed into the walls, creating a seasoning patina that enhances future brews. The clay also retains heat well. With its classic smiling‑face profile and bronze‑grade clay, the Xiao Ying teapot is suited for pu‑erh, black and oolong teas, and the 180 ml capacity is ideal for two to three people.
