Wu Xiaowei

Lion Head

Regular price: $199.99 USD
Sale price: $199.99 USD
Regular price: ~~$499.99~~

Quantity:

I've seen other lion-themed teapots before. What makes your Lion Head design special beyond just the shape?

Great question. Our Lion Head teapot is inspired by the traditional Chinese 'shishi' (stone lion) guardian figure, often seen at temple gates and important doorways. The lion's mane is hand-carved into the lid knob, and the eyes and brow are sculpted to convey both ferocity and watchfulness. In Chinese culture, the lion is a symbol of protection, strength, and noble authority. This isn't just a decorative shape - each detail is a deliberate nod to centuries of folk symbolism. Owning one connects you to that lineage of guardianship and courage.

Is this teapot made from genuine Yixing zisha clay or a glossy modern ceramic? How can I tell?

Absolutely authentic Yixing zisha, specifically our 'Mojini' or dark-wash purple clay. The surface has that characteristic matte, slightly rough texture that feels warm and earthy, not cold and shiny like industrial ceramics. You'll notice tiny golden sand flecks (from natural mineral deposits) when you wet it - that's a hallmark of real zisha. It will also absorb a thin layer of tea with repeated use, gradually darkening and developing a unique patina. If you run a finger inside the dry pot, the clay will feel slightly like a smooth suede, not glassy. We include a small certificate of origin with each order.

I'm new to zisha teapots. How does the lion head shape affect the way I should brew tea in it, compared to a round or flat teapot?

The Lion Head silhouette is actually quite practical. Its slightly barrel-shaped body gives ample room for tea leaves to fully expand - perfect for oolongs like Tieguanyin or young sheng puer. The spout is a short, straight design that delivers a quick, clean pour without dripping, helping you control steeping time precisely. The flat lid fits snugly, retaining heat well for darker teas like shou puer or Hong Shui. But here's a tip from our team: reserve this pot for a single tea type. Because zisha absorbs flavor, a teapot dedicated to, say, aged puer will enhance that tea's earthy notes over time without cross-contamination.

What's the best way to season a new Lion Head teapot? I want to make sure the lion image is preserved.

Simple and gentle is best. Rinse the pot with warm water (no soap - never use soap) and let it air dry. Then, put it in a pot of cold water, bring to a simmer for 15 minutes, and add about 10 grams of the type of tea you plan to brew in it. Simmer another 15 minutes, then let it cool naturally overnight. This 'seasoning' fills microscopic pore spaces and gets rid of any residual kiln dust. For the lion head, never use abrasive pads or brushes - they'll scratch the carved mane details. Instead, use a soft bamboo tea cloth or your palm to wipe the surface after each use. Over time, the lion's features will become richer and more lustrous without losing their sculpted edges.

I want to gift this to a friend who just started a new business. Would the Lion Head teapot be appropriate, or is it more of a personal collector item?

Actually, this is one of our best-loved business opening gifts. In Chinese feng shui and folk tradition, the stone lion is placed at enterprise entrances to 'ward off hidden obstacles' and 'call in prosperous clients.' Gifting a Lion Head teapot carries the same blessing: it's a wish for your friend's business to be as solid as stone, as bold as a lion, and to command respect. Pair it with a good-grade shou puer, which is traditionally associated with wealth and grounding. One note: if your friend isn't a tea drinker, they can display it empty near their office desk as a symbol - no need to brew. It works as an art piece and a talisman.

How do I care for this teapot? Can I use soap or put it in the dishwasher?

Please never use soap or a dishwasher! Zisha clay is porous and will absorb detergents, ruining the flavor of your tea. For daily care, simply rinse the pot with boiling water after each use and let it air dry upside down. Once a month, you can boil the empty pot in clean water for 10 minutes to refresh it. The color-change effect actually deepens and becomes more beautiful with regular brewing, as the clay seasons. Store it in a dry, ventilated place away from strong odors.

Making Process

tenmoku making of process

Description

In Chinese lore, the lion is a guardian of peace and prosperity. The Lion Head teapot captures that spirit—its sturdy, rounded form and bold, expressive lid knot evoke the strength and warmth of a family heirloom. Holding it, you feel the quiet power of ancient traditions, a tangible link to generations of tea ceremonies. Crafted from premium Yixing zisha clay, this 250ml pot is hand-shaped by skilled artisans. Its 7.5cm caliber allows easy leaf loading, while the natural clay breathes with the tea, seasoning over time to enhance every brew. The compact 5.8cm height and 16cm total length make it a perfect daily companion. Ideal for gongfu sessions or quiet mornings, it’s a meaningful gift for tea lovers or those seeking a touch of Chinese heritage. Embrace the guardian’s grace—add it to your collection today.

【Total length】: 16.0 CM
【Total height】: 5.8 CM
【Caliber】: 7.5 CM
【Capacity】:250 ML