Purple sand collector: how much is worth of teapot

At the end of a Guardian auction, after watching several clay pots sell for hundreds of thousands or even millions of yuan, a reporter asked me, “Is a teapot really worth that much?” My answer was simple: yes, it is.

At a teapot exhibition in Tianjin, a few friends who were passionate about teapots also asked me the same question: “Why are Zisha teapots so expensive?” Some online viewers even questioned why some teapots cost just a dozen yuan while others can reach hundreds of thousands or even ten million.

My explanation was straightforward. If you're only looking for a basic tea utensil, there's no need to spend a lot. But if you're seeking something more—like a piece with artistic value, historical significance, or personal meaning—you might find yourself paying a premium. When you add elements like brand recognition, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage, the price skyrockets. Just like luxury goods, famous teapots carry high brand value because of their widespread recognition and prestige.

Beyond being functional, teapots are also cultural artifacts. The process of shaping a teapot is an intangible cultural heritage in China, filled with deep historical and artistic meaning. Many ceramic masters have elevated teapots to the level of art, making them not just tools for drinking tea but also sources of spiritual inspiration. Using a teapot that’s a work of art allows you to experience beauty, culture, and quiet joy—things that money can’t truly measure.

Additionally, collecting teapots can be a form of investment. I’m not suggesting everyone should buy teapots to make money. Like trees that take time to grow and bear fruit, or stocks that require skill to pick the right ones, investing in teapots isn’t for everyone. Those who choose this path should genuinely love teapots. Only then will they appreciate them over time rather than be tempted to sell quickly. With patience, their collection may grow in value naturally.

Finally, the time a craftsman spends on a teapot isn’t necessarily tied to its price. A skilled artisan can create a masterpiece in a short time, just as a calligrapher can produce a beautiful piece in minutes. However, the real value comes from the artistic elements, not the time spent. A teapot doesn’t have to be made quickly or slowly to be valuable. What matters most is its artistic quality and emotional impact. Teapots created by renowned artists or those with unique designs often command high prices, sometimes reaching astronomical levels.