Ming Dynasty Yixing Clay Teapot Stock Photo

This is a perfectly preserved Ming Dynasty era Yixing clay teapot. Clay pottery in Yixing area of China dates back to the Song Dynasty in the 10th century. But it was later in the 14th century during the Ming Dynasty that fine teapots from local clay in Yixing were said to be crafted by monks. The Yixing teapot, of course, is used to brew tea. Its small size and design allows just the right amount of tea to be brewed properly in the right quantity.Today, these antique Yixing teapots are highly prized and eagerly collected by pottery collectors and tea enthusiasts.