In the tradition of Jingdezhen's imperial kilns, where a well-formed teapot was considered as much a work of art as a vessel of function, the Qing Hua Lotus Vines Longdan Tea Pot renders the classical lianli zhi (连理枝) motif in deep cobalt blue across the rounded, egg-shaped body of the longdan (龙旦) form. Lotus blooms and scrolling vines wind continuously around the body in an unbroken, interlocking embrace, framed by fine border bands in the style of the Ming imperial kilns. Hand-painted in the qinghua tradition on high-fired porcelain, it is a teapot that commands the centre of any tea table with quiet authority.
Key Features
- Material: High-fired porcelain with hand-painted qinghua (blue-and-white) underglaze
- Form: Longdan pot (龙旦壶) — Dragon Egg Teapot
- Diameter: 11.3cm · Height: 8.8cm · Capacity: 130ml
- Ideal for: Gongfu tea ceremony, daily tea ritual, gifting and collecting
Artisan Craftsmanship
Each teapot is individually hand-painted by artisans trained in the qinghua tradition, a technique born in the Yuan Dynasty and perfected across the Ming and Qing imperial kilns of Jingdezhen. The lotus blooms and winding vines are drawn freehand in cobalt underglaze before the first firing, their stems traced in a continuous line that loops and branches across the full curve of the longdan body with unhurried confidence. The silver-traced outlines that define each motif lend the pattern a subtle luminosity, a refinement that shifts with the light as the teapot is turned in the hand. The longdan form itself is among the most considered in the Chinese tea tradition: its round, uninterrupted body retains heat evenly, its low centre of gravity makes it steady to pour, and its clean silhouette gives the motif the full, unbroken canvas it deserves.
Cultural Symbolism
The longdan, the Dragon Egg, takes its name from the fullness and perfection of its form — round, contained, and brimming with potential, as the egg of a dragon was said to be. It is a form associated with abundance and auspicious beginnings, the vessel from which something great is about to pour. Across its surface, the lianli zhi speaks of bonds that intertwine and hold: rooted in the Tang Dynasty poetry of Bai Juyi, the intertwining branch is a symbol of connections so close they become inseparable. The lotus blooming along its vines adds purity and quiet grace. Together, Dragon Egg and lotus vine render this teapot a vessel of layered meaning, from which every pour carries its own blessing.
The Perfect Gift
Presented in a gift box, the Qing Hua Lotus Vines Longdan Tea Pot is a distinguished offering for tea connoisseurs, collectors of Chinese ceramics, and those who honour the depth of Chinese cultural heritage. A particularly meaningful gift for weddings, anniversaries, and occasions that celebrate enduring bonds, as well as Chinese New Year, milestone celebrations, or any occasion deserving something truly refined.
Imperial Brocade Gift Box
For a gifting experience as considered as the piece itself, the Imperial Brocade Gift Box is available as a top-up at $32.80. Inspired by the rich textile traditions of the Tang imperial court, the brocade box elevates the presentation with layers of cultural symbolism and tactile luxury, making it the complete expression of refined Chinese artisanship.
Where lotus blooms and intertwining vines meet the ancient art of blue-and-white, a teapot to be treasured across generations.