Yixing teapots are one of the most valued artifacts in China. A teapot with unique properties and forms, these are sought-after by both Chinese and non-Chinese people alike. This type of pottery has given birth to a number of legends, people who are expert craftsmen in the making of these pots, and arguably one of the most unique ceramics of its kind in the world. One such person was Chen Mingyuan. What is the story behind this artisan, and why are his highly regarded creations considered one of the best?
The Qing Dynasty, which stretched from 1644-1911, was an era where the art of Yixing pottery really flourished. There are a lot of legendary pot makers that arose during those times, but only a few are recognized as much as Chen Mingyuan. A potter that lived during the Kangxi Period, he's considered one of the most talented makers of Chinese teapots in history. Along with this distinction, he authored some creative innovations that are still used by various masters today. Also known by the name of Hu Yin, his works are some of the most valued in the world of Yixing Zisha pottery.
As one of the most popular potters commissioned by the Chinese elite and literati at the time, his works resembled the forms and themes this group enjoyed having on their tables. His potteries are the specimens that you could imagine seeing on a scholar's desk, with archaistic vessels, and trompe l'oeil pieces. During his lifetime, he created over a hundred teapots; many of them landing in the hands of serious collectors and in museums. He also created other nature themed clay vessels such as brush and ink rests, animals, water containers, water droppers and cups rendered with the most astonishing realism.
Just like any great Yixing potter, Chen Mingyuan had a "signature approach" on how he created his masterpieces. He sculpted pots in different shapes and sizes, with expansive variety that any enthusiast should appreciate. But he pioneered two original design cues that are still popular even to this day - the engraving and the inscription of poems on the teapot itself. These features alone represent the skill and gifted sensibility of this artist. Of course, true to Yixing tradition, his pots contain his unique signature, a square seal with seal script in relief that contains "Mingyuan".
Because of their sheer uniqueness, the works of Chen Mingyuan are still highly sought after up to today. In fact, the value of his works can easily reach thousands of dollars. But as a skilled artisan of this unique art form, his works have shown an artistic ingenuity that is timeless. After all, as someone who paid tribute to past legends such as Shin Da Bin and Gong Chun, while also being looked up to by younger generations of Yixing potters, Mingyuan's name is firmly rooted in the annals of Yixing teapot history.
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Karen Davis is an Yixing Teapot enthusiast and collected her first pot back in the 1980's. She is the founder of Brownstoneshopper, an online webstore that sells Yixing teapots. We have a variety of teapots showcased in our online gallery. If you enjoyed this article, visit us now online at http://www.brownstoneshopper.com/contact-us/ and sign up for your FREE Report!
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