2008 Rao Zongyi's Carved Calligraphy and Paintings QingShui Clay well-shaped Teapot

Vessel Name: well-shaped Teapot
Engraving by: Rao Zongyi
Material: QingShui Clay
Specifications: Height 8.5cm; Maximum diameter 10.9cm; Total width including spout and handle 16.5cm
Capacity: 410ml

This 2008 Rao Zongyi's Carved Calligraphy and Paintings QingShui Clay well-shaped Teapot, boasts a natural brownish texture that exudes an air of composure and understatement. The clay body is smooth, tender, and uniform in texture.
Modeled after the classic railing of an ancient well, the teapot features a sturdy, well-proportioned structure with a concise straight cylindrical silhouette. Its clean lines embody an inherent sense of solemnity and antique simplicity. The flush-fitting lid lies flat and smooth, joining the mouth of the teapot seamlessly. At the center of the lid sits a small, neat cylindrical knob—well-proportioned and easy to grip.
The short, curved spout tapers slightly, ensuring a steady and smooth flow of water. The loop-shaped handle curves gracefully with fluid lines, perfectly symmetrical to the spout and accentuating the teapot’s harmonious design.
The body of the teapot is engraved with lotus and crab motifs, symbolizing harmony, which echo the inscriptions on it perfectly. The artistic charm of the brushwork complements the teapot’s elegant shape and the mellow texture of the clay, fully embodying its refined and graceful essence.

Rao Zongyi (August 9, 1917 — February 6, 2018) was born in Chao’an, Guangdong Province, with ancestral roots in Meixian, Guangdong Province. His courtesy names were Gu’an, Bolian and Bozi, and his art name was Xuantang.
A preeminent sinologist, classicist, archaeologist, paleographer, translator, litterateur, calligrapher and painter, as well as a specialist in Dunhuang studies and cultural history, he held the esteemed titles of Member of the École française d'Extrême-Orient, Foreign Member of the Académie des Inscriptions et Belles-Lettres of the Institut de France, and Member of the International Eurasian Academy of Sciences.
During his lifetime, he served as Honorary Chair Professor of the Institute of Chinese Studies and the Department of Fine Arts, The Chinese University of Hong Kong; Honorary Chair Professor of the Department of Chinese Language and Literature, The Chinese University of Hong Kong; Member of the Central Institute of Culture and History; and President of Xiling Seal Art Society.