Teapot - Yixing clay

Bamboo-Form Teapot by Fan Yongliang (范永良)

Based on my research, I believe this to be an authentic early 1970s Yixing zisha teapot by Fan Yongliang (范永良). This attribution is based on the impressed Fan Yongliang seal inside the lid, the distinctive style, the quality of the zisha clay, the craftsmanship, and the manufacturing characteristics typical of the early 1970s at the State-owned Yixing Zisha Factory.

Born in 1943, Fan Yongliang entered the State-owned Yixing Zisha Factory in 1958, then the only state-owned Yixing zisha production factory in China. He studied under the legendary Yixing master Jiang Rong (蒋蓉, 1919–2008), one of the most influential figures in the history of Yixing pottery. In 1980, Fan Yongliang participated in the establishment of the Second Yixing Zisha Factory, where he served as Technical Director and Chief Master Craftsman.

This teapot is an early factory-produced commercial piece, made during Fan Yongliang’s early career while he was working at the State-owned Yixing Zisha Factory. During this period, many of the factory’s finest craftsmen produced wares for commercial distribution, and these early signed works are now increasingly appreciated by collectors for their historical importance, authenticity and high level of craftsmanship.

After extensive research, I have found no evidence of another Yixing potter using the name “Fan Yongliang” or the same impressed seal. In my opinion, the available evidence strongly supports this attribution.

The teapot is finely modelled in the form of bamboo, with a matching bamboo-form spout, handle and finial. One side is engraved with the famous inscription “玉壶买春” (Yu Hu Mai Chun), a classical literary phrase associated with the refined appreciation of tea and wine, while the reverse is decorated with an elegantly incised plum blossom branch. The proportions are harmonious, and the teapot demonstrates the refined workmanship characteristic of early Yixing factory production.

Dimensions

* Width (including spout and handle): 19 cm
* Height: 8 cm

Condition
Overall, the teapot is in very good vintage condition. There is a tiny flea-bite chip to the outer edge of the lid (approximately the size of a sesame seed). The lid sits slightly raised on one side and does not sit perfectly flush with the rim, but it fits securely. No cracks or repairs have been detected. Please study the photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description.