Gu Shunyuan's Jiangpo Mud Well Railing Pot

Material: Slope reducing mud Capacity: 200ml
Specifications: Length 14cm, Height 7cm
Inner diameter: 5.5cm

This teapot has a simple design and was made by the master potter Gu Shunyuan. Its style is elegant and refined, and it is one of the classic teapot styles passed down through generations.

Gu Shunyuan (Yuan Dynasty), a national-level master of arts and crafts, was born in 1952 into a family of teapot makers in Yixing. In 1976, he began studying under his uncle, Gu Daorong, a senior arts and crafts master renowned for his floral-themed teapots. Through diligent practice, he laid a solid foundation in his craft. His works are characterized by innovative and novel designs, a rustic charm, and elegance, forming a unique style of their own.
His works have won gold medals in national awards many times, and many of his works have been collected by museums at various levels.

The story of the well curb:

One early summer day, Peng Nian, a fellow teapot enthusiast, visited. Mansheng hosted a banquet in the courtyard, and they exchanged ideas on the theme of purple clay teapots. Peng Nian asked if Mansheng had any new ideas lately. Mansheng shook his head, saying, "I've been busy with official duties lately and haven't had a chance!" Peng Nian said, "Don't be impatient! Everything can be made into a teapot!" Mansheng replied, "I only strive for refinement!" The two drank and enjoyed themselves immensely. To the south of the courtyard, there was a deep well. A maid was drawing water from the well. The well railing was high and the water deep. The maid's back was bent like a colorful shrimp as she drew water. The two looked at each other and laughed. Mansheng stared intently at the well railing and the maid drawing water. Slowly, the maid transformed into a beautiful teapot handle, and the well railing into the teapot body. Peng Nian, seeing Mansheng's intention, immediately ordered a servant to bring pen and ink. He then began to draw on the stone table, sketching several times until a teapot was finally completed. Peng Nian said, "How about naming this teapot 'Water-Drawing Teapot'?" Mansheng shook his head, saying, "This teapot is naturally formed; it can only be called 'Well Railing'." The two looked at each other and laughed heartily.