Yixing

The name Fang Gu (仿古) literally means "modelled after the ancients" in reference to ancient Chinese bronze vessels. Gently curved with a stable foot, this timeless teapot with its balanced proportions and low centre of gravity is one of the most popular shapes for Gongfu ceremonies.

Wide, straight and cylindrical, the sturdy Han Wa (漢瓦) translates to "Han Dynasty roof tile" after its resemblance to the solid, slightly curved tiles from this era. Its low centre of gravity and thick walls guarantees even heat distribution for balanced tea brewing.

The elegant and much loved Xi Shi (西施) style is named after one of the Four Beauties of Ancient China. The full, rounded shape with short spout is said to resemble her graceful face, while the handle represents her hair tied in a bun.

In East Asian culture, dragons symbolise luck, power and prosperity so no wonder the Long Dan (龙蛋), literally Dragon Egg, is one of the most iconic Chinese teapot shapes.

A flatter version of the classic Xi Shi style, Bian Xi Shi (扁西施) teapots with their wide and shallow form are particularly suitable for long leaf teas.

The refined Xu Bian (虚扁 "hollow flat") style provides plenty of space for large leaf teas to spread out.

A modern classic defined by an elegant central line, the Han Yun (漢雲 "Han cloud") was designed by esteemed Chinese ceramic artist and Number One Yixing Factory founder, Gu Jingzhou (1915-1996).