A pot is called good when it meets certain conditions or requirements. Similarly, the definition of a good pot varies for different players. However, no matter what, Clay, shape, craftsmanship, and signature—these four points are always fundamental to a good pot.
One-Star Novice
These are friends who have just started with purple clay pots, meaning they are new to the field, and for them, a pot made of good clay is considered a good one. Since those just starting with purple clay are not very knowledgeable about it, they lack the ability to distinguish handcrafted pots from slip-cast or wheel-thrown ones. They cannot even tell the difference between clay sourced from outside the mountain and that from within. Thus, as long as they can buy a pot made of good clay, it is considered a good pot (because with good clay assured, other aspects won't be too bad).
Two-Star Aficionado
This category includes friends who have been into purple clay pots for some time. For them, a pot with a graceful structure is considered good. After playing with pots for a while, one gains a basic understanding of clay. At this point, attention should be paid to the pot's structure, which is referred to as its shape.
The proportion and coordination between spout, handle, and body, whether all parts of the pot resonate and flow smoothly, and if the energy is well-connected—this is what constitutes the structure of a pot, which also embodies its spirit and vitality. If understanding the structure is challenging, one can look at traditional shapes, such as the Shi Piao pot, and study the works of famous artists in history, paying attention to the combination of spout and body. Comparing these with contemporary works will help better understand the structure. A pot with good clay and a graceful structure is considered a good pot.
Three-Star Expert
This group includes friends who have delved deeply into purple clay pots. For them, a pot with excellent craftsmanship is considered a good one. By excellent craftsmanship, we mean the workmanship of the pot, which is quite broad. For example, round pots should be evenly balanced and full of natural lines; floral pots should feature vivid appliqués and meticulous details; thin-walled pots should be delicately crafted and light as a feather. These are all manifestations of workmanship.
Such friends must have encountered many pots by now, so their requirements for pots are higher. Round, square, ribbed, floral, thin-walled, twisted clay, gold-embossed, and sand-mixed—the craftsmanship must be done well and properly to meet their standards. This is where craftsmanship comes into play. At this level, good craftsmanship is the standard for them when playing with pots, making it a good pot.
Four-Star Master
This category consists of seasoned connoisseurs who are well-versed in all aspects of purple clay. When buying pots at this stage, they start focusing on the signature. By signature, we mean the author and title, in other words, the recognition of the author.
Since they can already judge the quality of a pot based on clay, shape, and craftsmanship, the signature becomes their criterion for a good pot, considering factors like the author's reputation, character, and potential. Pots made by renowned masters of purple clay or promising contemporary artisans, when purchased, are considered good pots for them.
The above discusses the standards for a good pot from different stages. It is not hard to see that, in essence, the four elements still boil down to: clay, shape, craftsmanship, and signature. Although each person may emphasize different aspects, in reality, none can be omitted. A pot that excels in all four areas is truly a good one.