VTG Traditional Yixing Zisha Purple Sand Clay Teapot, Gong Fu Ceremony Pot

This teapot is a traditional Chinese unglazed ceramic vessel crafted from specialized zisha purple sand clay found exclusively near Lake Tai in Jiangsu Province. Renowned for their porous texture, these teapots absorb tea oils over time to enrich future brews, making them prized companions for Gong Fu tea ceremonies. It looks mahogany brown; but it’s truly a deep earthy purple.  It’s a rare shade.  Handcrafted with carved Chinese characters. Ideal for brewing loose-leaf tea and enhancing ritual tea service. The characters loosely translates to “The warm gentle fragrance of the tea fills the room.”  The opposite side has a bamboo tree carving.  Purchased in China in mid 20th century, between 1950-1965; Includes red silk cord on lid for easier handling.   Some damage on the tea leaf diffuser inside as shown in the picture.  It does not affect using the diffuser of the pot & it still sits neatly in place.  The lid and teapot are in perfect condition.  Price reflects damage to the diffuser.