Ribbed-Pattern Teapots--- Unforgettable in the History of Yixing Zisha

The ribbed-pattern teapot stands as one of the most representative and influential categories in Yixing Zisha teapot design. Drawing inspiration from the natural textures of fruits and flower petals, these teapots are crafted with meticulous attention to symmetry. Their clear lines and rhythmic beauty showcase the elegance of nature transformed through artistry.

"Precisely aligned, with matching body and lid, clear and adjustable textures, and accurate segmentation," ribbed-pattern teapots have captivated tea enthusiasts throughout generations.

Styles of Ribbed-Pattern Teapots

There are primarily five styles of ribbed-pattern teapots:

1. Linghua Style
   Inspired by the shape of the water caltrop, an aquatic plant, this style includes variations such as "Heling" (Combined Caltrop), "Pianlinghua" (Asymmetrical Caltrop), and "Shudailinghua" (Ribboned Caltrop) following the initial creation by Dong Han.

2. Chrysanthemum Style
   This style abstracts and evolves from the chrysanthemum flower and is the most common type of ribbed-pattern teapot.

3. Sunflower Style
   Using the curves of sunflower petals, this style creates a unique ribbed texture, exemplified by the Sunflower Antique teapot.

4. Plum Blossom Style
   Incorporating the patterns of wintersweet blossoms, the Plum Blossom ribbed-pattern teapot usually features five petals.

5. Skirt Hem Style
   Also known as the Umbrella Style, it mimics the pleats of a summer skirt. Notable examples include Wang Yinchun’s Skirted Handle Teapot and Wang Shigeng’s Skirted Teapot.

Masterpieces of ribbed-pattern teapots sold sky-high prices at auctions

• Kangxi Era, Chen Mingyuan's Pumpkin Teapot
  Auction Price: ¥32,200,000
  (2016, China Guardian, Beijing)

• Shi Dabin's Round and Flat Round Caltrop Teapots
  Auction Price: ¥21,850,000
  (2019, Poly Auction, Beijing)

• Gu Jingzhou's Linghua Tea Set (One Teapot and Two Cups)
  Auction Price: ¥19,320,000
  (2015, Beijing Yuanfang)

• Chen Mingyuan’s Jiayi Teapot
  Auction Price: ¥10,800,000
  (2016, Beijing Juyi Autumn Auction)

• Gu Jingzhou’s Baoling Teapot
  Auction Price: ¥6,325,000
  (2016, Beijing Juyi Autumn Auction)

These masterpieces not only represent the pinnacle of Yixing Zisha artistry but also embody the timeless appeal and cultural significance of ribbed-pattern teapots.