The Making of a Han Bian Yixing Teapot: Gloss Finish Before the Fire

Here is a freshly crafted Han Bian–shaped Yixing teapot, still damp and soft, waiting to dry before entering the kiln.

At this stage, the teapot has already been polished to a subtle gloss, giving the raw clay surface a moist, lustrous appearance. This gloss is not just for looks—it plays an important role in the teapot's future use. A smoother surface allows a richer patina (包浆) to develop more quickly with regular brewing, enhancing both the beauty and the tea flavor over time.

This finish is achieved by repeatedly rubbing the surface with thin slices of water-soaked ox horn, a traditional technique that compresses the clay and reveals its natural sheen. It’s also a hallmark of fine craftsmanship, showing the level of care and precision in the teapot's finishing.

Now, the teapot must air dry completely—a slow, careful process. Only when it is fully dried will it be ready to be fired in the kiln, where it transforms from soft clay into a finished work of art.