Jianshui “Fanggu” Handmade Small Solo Teapot - 90ml

The Fanggu teapot (仿古壶) is a classic Chinese form recognized by its broad body, rounded shoulders, and low, drum-like profile. This 90ml version is handmade from Jianshui clay (建水陶泥), a dense, iron-rich clay from Yunnan traditionally used for unglazed teaware.

The shape of the pot matters just as much as its material. Fanggu has a wide, low brewing chamber, giving tea leaves more room to spread outward instead of stacking vertically. This is especially useful for teas that open broadly during brewing, such as rolled oolongs, larger puerh pieces, and fuller-leaf teas.

Its wide body and broad base create more horizontal space for the leaves to unfurl. Rolled teas such as Tieguanyin or Taiwanese oolong can expand without being crowded against the walls, while broken pieces of compressed tea have room to separate as they soften through repeated infusions.

The relatively low profile also keeps the leaves closer to the bottom of the pot, where they remain fully surrounded by hot water. Compared with a tall, narrow teapot, Fanggu favors outward expansion rather than vertical movement, making it particularly well suited to teas with compact leaves that grow significantly as they steep.

A generous opening makes it easier to add larger leaves or small pieces of compressed tea and makes cleanup simpler after the session. The broad lid also gives clear access to the brewing chamber, which is useful when closely controlling the amount and placement of tea.

Jianshui clay holds heat well, and the Fanggu's broad, substantial body adds thermal stability during short gongfu infusions. This can be useful for roasted oolong, puerh, and other teas that respond well to consistently hot water. The dense unglazed clay can also soften sharper edges in the liquor while preserving a rich, rounded body.

At approximately 90ml, this pot is sized for solo gongfu brewing or sharing a few small cups. Its short spout gives a direct pour, while the broad base keeps the pot stable on the tea table.

Each teapot is individually handmade, so small variations in shape, surface, and finishing are natural. With regular use, the unglazed Jianshui clay can gradually develop a deeper surface luster.

The Fanggu is a strong choice for tea drinkers who regularly brew leaves that expand outward, particularly rolled oolongs and compressed teas, and want a compact pot with plenty of room for the leaves to open.