Many teapot enthusiasts are puzzled during the process of nourishing their Teapots, wondering why their teapots don't seem to improve or why the changes occur so slowly.
In fact, there is no uniform standard for this issue. Teapots made from aged Clay can be nourished relatively quickly, while duan clay (a type of clay) tends to be lighter in color and more difficult to nourish, but once nourished, they have a very appealing luster.
Some types of clay may not look impressive when they first come out of the Kiln, but after just a few brews, noticeable changes start to appear, with the entire color becoming much more pronounced.
How long does it take to see results when nourishing a teapot?
If you use a Yixing teapot daily, subtle changes will typically appear on its surface within about a month, giving it a more refined feel. After a month, the teapot's sheen will become subdued, a kind of subdued yet radiant light, clearly different from a new teapot. Good quality clay may even begin to develop a patina before a month has passed.
After a year of use, the teapot becomes even more dignified, exuding a unique spirit. When a Yixing teapot is well-nourished over time, it will exhibit a patina.
The Formation and Expression of Patina Culture
What is patina?
When an item is produced and processed, it will eventually appear old over time, regardless of whether it is damaged or not. You can still sense its age because the material's surface undergoes some changes over time.
This phenomenon occurs naturally, but people have given a specific term, “patina,” to describe these changes in art, crafts, and natural products that have been imbued with cultural significance. This term is then pursued and admired, leading to a cultural phenomenon.
The Presentation of “Patina” Changes in Yixing Teapots
1. Physical changes on the surface of Yixing: the external flushing of the Yixing surface
2. Chemical changes on the surface of Yixing: interactions between external substances and the Yixing surface, including oxidation and other chemical reactions
3. Residual external substances and their physical and chemical changes: various inorganic and organic particles remain on the Yixing surface, undergoing their own physical and chemical changes.
These three categories interweave and complement each other, and over time, the surface of the Yixing teapot undergoes a change in texture, developing a patina.
In addition to natural use, artificial methods can accelerate certain aspects of change, but the effects will differ from those of natural use. As a result, a certain patina (or change in texture) can be obtained, but it will differ in appearance and touch from the patina developed through natural use.
Why do People Pursue Patina?
Firstly, “time is hard to come by,” making patina, which carries the meaning of time, particularly precious.
Secondly, there is a natural human inclination towards items that have been used for a long time, as they provide a greater sense of comfort. People instinctively feel a stronger connection to older objects, making them more endearing.
Thirdly, good quality clay is rich in oil, which allows for a faster development of patina, indicating better quality clay!
The value of “patina” comes from the passage of time and natural use, a principle that cannot be broken. When it comes to patina, we should adhere to natural processes and maintain a calm attitude, avoiding excessive brushing and soaking of your Yixing teapot just for the sake of patina.
The joy of a Yixing teapot lies in the process, with the result being merely a manifestation. Nurture it slowly and patiently, using it for a lifetime to experience the different flavors of a Yixing teapot at different stages.
Source: purple Clay Teapot
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