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Pinewood Smoked Handmade Jianchuan Black Gaiwan

£130.00
£130.00
Tax included. Shipping calculated at checkout.

Far away from the temptations and noise of modern life, Geng Ling has chosen a path of solitude and simplicity in the remote mountains near Dali. As a result, her black pottery possesses a rare quality of vitality and intentionality. This is why we are honoured to share her work with you.

Drawing on Jianchuan’s 3,000-year-old black pottery traditions, Geng Ling blends ancient teachings with her observations of the simple mountain life she has embraced. She prepares Jianchuan clay in harmony with the rhythms of nature, taking time to shape each piece with great care and thoughtfulness. Fired with pine needles and wood, her pottery holds a warmth and vitality that feels alive in your hands. Over time, the subtle textures and earthy tones evolve, growing more vibrant and lustrous with each use - a quiet yet eloquent testament to the life force within each creation.

Holding one of Geng Ling’s Gai Wan reminds us of the inquisitive dialogue one could have with nature. May each pour invite you to slow down, savour the moment and connect deeply with the natural world within and around you.

Features:

  • Tradition: Made with Jianchuan’s 3,000-year-old black pottery traditions.
  • Craftsmanship: Handmade with Jianchuan clay, prepared in harmony with natural rhythms without harmful chemicals. 
  • Living Quality: Each Gaiwan is unique and has a quality that gradually evolves with time and use.
  • Firing Process: Fired using pine needles and wood, imbuing each piece with warmth and character.
  • Material: Unglazed black pottery, rich in iron, offering a natural aesthetic and feel.
  • Toxin-Free: Made from natural clay and free from harmful substances, ensuring safe and healthy use.
  • Durability: Excellent heat retention is ideal for tea rituals and everyday use.
  • Evolution: Subtle textures and earthy tones develop a vibrant, lustrous patina over time with use.
  • Connection: Evokes a deeper bond with nature, simplicity, and mindfulness in daily life.

Read the full interview with Geng Ling and her artistic process in our latest print Journal.

*The price includes international shipping.

Cultural Tradition

The black pottery tradition of China is deeply rooted in history, with origins dating back to the Neolithic Longshan culture (around 3000-2000 BCE) in the Yellow River Valley. Renowned for its strikingly dark and glossy finish, this style of pottery was created using advanced kiln techniques and the smoking process, where organic materials like pinewood are used. .Each piece reflects a harmonious blend of artistry and nature, echoing the timeless practices of Chinese artisans.

What's Included

• Gai Wan lid
• Gai Wan body
• Our well-wishing to you

Materials

Locally sourced clay from the Dali region, Fired in a handmade kiln at 1,200°C, and Smoked with pinewood for a rich, deep black finish

Dimensions

Gaiwan body diameter: 7.8cm
Height with lid and body: 6.7cm
Volume: 90-110ml
*handmade pottery may have slight variations in form and finish, which add to its uniqueness.

Care & Tips

1. Please pre-warm the vessel before each use.
2. Allow the piece to "grow" with you and your tea ritual. The Gaiwan will likely be very "hungry" for tea in the first 3-6 months. Please treat it as a living being and nourish it with all types of tea, from light to dark.
3. Clean with water only; avoid using soap to preserve the natural clay’s characteristics over time.
4. For a deeper clean, use salt, which gently scrubs the surface without compromising the integrity of the clay.

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