Yixing is probably the most treasured kind of teapot in China. Made by some of the best pot-makers in the world, it has unique properties that make it a favorite for both collectors and tea connoisseurs. Part of what make these teapots unique is the level of craftsmanship that goes into each pot. The level of expertise Yixing potters (they are actually called craftsmen out there, and rightfully so) possess in their craft is immense, and they are accordingly and handsomely paid for their works. It all starts with apprenticeship. What are the different levels of apprenticeship for Yixing potters?
The Chinese are known to be strong followers of tradition. And this is no different when it comes to getting a career as a Yixing potter. Everybody has to start from the bottom. And only the most talented and persevering ones are those who are able to reach the elite spots in the pottery hierarchy.
There was a time when there was a "one master, one apprentice" policy, meaning that this one master craftsman is fully responsible for molding disciples into becoming the best craftsmen they can possibly become. Take for example Huang Yuling. He used to be a student of Chao Xingpu, and then later went on to become probably the most renowned Yixing craftsman during the Qing dynasty. But it's not uncommon at all for masters to teach multiple apprentices, and apprentices can get training from multiple masters.
Yixing potters are ranked according to the level of skill and experience they possess. Their rank certainly affects the prices they can command on the market. Some of the most elite craftsmen are able to demand huge amounts of money with each work. Here is a simple rundown of the different rankings of Yixing craftsmen, from the lowest to the highest.
1. Craftsman (Technician)
2. Assistant Master Craftsman
3. Master Craftsman
4. Senior Master Craftsman
5. Provincial Grandmaster Craftsman
6. Grandmaster Craftsman
That is a simple rundown of the different rankings for those who make Yixing pottery. With each increasing level, the prices their works command on the market go up as well. Each of these craftsmen have their own style, meaning each pot is distinctly different from others. Because there's a huge variance in the production of these pots, what one person considers as a masterpiece may not exactly be one for another, and vice versa. Because of this variation, the Chinese developed a way to distinguish their work. Each craftsman has his/her own seal, authenticating their work on the process. This seal is cut in stone with the use of steel, and as such the resulting seal is said to "smell of stone and metal".
In order for these Yixing craftsmen to be promoted, they must gain a certain amount of on-job experience to even qualify. Their promotion must also be scrutinized by certain authorities for approval. This process is a combination of artistry, technique, achievement, education, and experience that helps them achieve promotion. As such, for Yixing craftsmen, this apprenticeship system is a huge indication of how far they have come.
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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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