The name 仙桃壶 (xiāntáo hú) literally means “immortal/peach teapot” and refers to teapots that take their inspiration from the peach — a long‑standing symbol of longevity and immortality in Chinese art. Peaches appear frequently in decorative arts and scholar’s objects, and Yixing (Zisha) potters from the late Ming and especially Qing periods popularized small, sculptural teapots that incorporate auspicious motifs such as the peach and its leaves. Many later studio potters continue this tradition, producing vessels that combine functional brewing form with symbolic ornament.

The exact canonical proportions called “仙桃壶” can vary by maker, so the term is used broadly rather than denoting a single strict model. Typical examples are low, rounded and slightly flattened in profile, with an applied peach‑shaped lid finial, carved or applied leaf decoration, a short spout and a comfortable loop handle. Such shapes are well suited to single‑person brewing; the sculptural lid detail both identifies the motif and serves as an easy grip. Materials are often Yixing purple or brown clays, which complement the naturalistic motifs and age attractively with use.
Wood-fired handmade Yixing teapot made from Duanni clay sourced from the original Huanglongshan mine. Xu Shun Wei.