Phoenix-head silver pot (phoenix head)

　　Product Model: 259#

　　Weight/g: 496

　　Dimensions: 149*122*180 850

　　The pearl-shaped body of the teapot is smooth, lustrous, and perfectly rounded. The spout is meticulously crafted in the form of a phoenix’s head, its neck gracefully extended in a long, melodious cry; the feather crest is exquisitely detailed, lending the creature an intensely vibrant and spirited expression. The shoulder and lid of the teapot are adorned with embossed silver plaques that resemble the phoenix’s richly embroidered plumage and splendid wings. The entire piece showcases superb hammering techniques, densely covered with gradually varying hammered patterns—a testament to the extraordinary craftsmanship.

　　The silver teapot with a phoenix-head spout originated in Tang Dynasty Chinese ceramics. Its design features a phoenix head as the lid, a dragon’s body serving as the handle, and a teapot shape that retains the lotus-pot style of the Northern and Southern Dynasties period. It also incorporates stylistic elements from Persian gold and silver vessels, particularly the bird-head spout design. The original creator of this teapot was Nagakoshi Masaharu, the tenth-generation master potter from the Nagakoshi family during the Edo period, also known as Ya Gorō—the “Master Potter of Japan, Nagakoshi Masaharu.” The teapot’s lid is a press-fit type, densely adorned with hammered patterns; at its center, a copper-filtering disc is precisely positioned. The knob-ring on the lid stands upright and fits snugly into place. The teapot’s body is oval-shaped, showcasing the artisan’s exceptional skill. The entire surface of the body is covered with hammered textures that give it a shimmering, "rippling" effect. The spout, shaped like a phoenix’s head, features two gently curved openings, ideal for brewing tea with low-pressure, slow-flow infusion. The spout is engraved with a phoenix (its cry heralding the rising sun). On the back of the spout, a spherical filter can be used both for brewing and straining. The handle, resembling an eroded calligraphy scroll, displays natural wear and tear, evoking the passage of time and the aged character of the piece. With a capacity of 850 milliliters, this teapot yields approximately fourteen cups of tea—perfect for intimate gatherings of three or four friends sharing a cup of tea together.