Chinese Yixing Clay Teapot, ca. 1840
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GUEST:
A fellow gave this to me. I can't even really remember the amount of years. It's been at least 20 years. I just set it on the shelf in a corner.
APPRAISER:
It is Chinese. This is actually made out of a type of earthenware that's called Yixing ware. Now, Yixing comes from a place called Yixing, China. It has a very special quality. Beautiful dark red color. It can be a light brown. But it's perfect for making tea. And so this was an individual's teapot. There are a few marks. There's a small mark on the inside of the cover, there's a mark on the underside, with the maker's mark, Yuan Zhu Ming, and a mark underneath the handle, right there. Most of these marks are just kind of clever sayings and kind wishes as you enjoy your tea. I think this is quite early. This probably dates to around the 1830s or 1840s.
GUEST:
Really?
APPRAISER:
Yeah. There is some damage on the top, which unfortunately takes away some of the value. These are very collectible, though. I think, at auction, this might bring between $500 to $700.
GUEST:
Oh, marvelous. I thought it would bring maybe $20, $30. Been sitting on a shelf up there in the corner for years.
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