2020s Zhu Ni Tribute Bureau Level (貢局水平) - Archived

Gong Ju (貢局) is a famous mark found on many teapots made at the end of the Manchu Qing Empire (1644-1912). These two characters literally translate as "Tribute Bureau," which is believed to be the bureau that handled affairs related to the Qing dynasty's vassal states including the Kingdom of Siam (modern day Thailand). It is believed that this mark was used by Qing officials to identify teapots that were being sold to the Siamese royal family, and later it became a mark of superior quality. 

This teapot is modeled on the type of Zhu Ni teapot that was commonly produced in the late 19th century. Like many other teapots that were made during the final years of the Qing dynasty, this dainty Zhu Ni teapot eventually became an enduring classic form because of the skill that is required to produce one. As you can see when compared against original "Tribute Bureau" pots, the style of this modern-made teapot has many stylistic features in common with its predecessor, making it a lovely piece reminiscent of a glorious age of teapot craftsmanship. 

The clay used to make this pot, "Zhao Zhuang Zhu Ni" is a 100% pure Zhu Ni ore mined at Zhao Zhuang Mountain, considered a classical entry-level Zhu Ni clays over the past 30 years. Like most Zhu Ni, this clay is difficult to fire and has a high failure rate.  As a result, it is safer to craft the clay into a relatively small teapot to ensure more successful pieces. The tea brewed in this teapot comes out lively with a clean taste, which is what you would expect from any Zhu Ni teapot that is up to snuff.  We would highly recommend this piece to anyone who wants to have a quality Zhu Ni teapot experience without breaking the bank. 

Mineral: Zhao Zhuang Zhu Ni / 趙庄 朱泥 

Mineral Location: Zhao Zhuang Mountain / 趙庄山 (Yi Xing County, Jiangsu)

Firing Temperature: 1080 c / 仟捌拾 度

Shrinkage: 25% / 分之 廿五

Bottom Stamp: Gong Ju / 貢局

Volume: 160 ml / 佰陸拾 毫升