The name 紫泥秦权壶 can be read literally as “purple clay (zini) Qin‑quan teapot.” Purple clay (zini) is one of the classic Yixing (Zisha) clays used for teapots, prized since the Ming and Qing dynasties for its porosity, heat retention and ability to develop a seasoning with use. The term 秦权 (Qin‑quan) likely alludes to ancient Qin‑dynasty bronze weights or balance‑weights (quan), a motif that potters and connoisseurs later adopted as a source of archaizing forms. If the exact canonical form called “Qin‑quan” here is ambiguous, it is safest to understand the piece as a zini Yixing teapot inspired by antique weight‑shapes rather than a strictly codified historic model.

Shape note: teapots of this inspiration are typically compact and solid in profile, with a low, rounded or slightly flattened body that echoes a small weight, a short straight or slightly curved spout, and a simple loop or strap handle. Lids are usually low‑domed and fit closely. The surface is left unglazed to show the warm purple‑brown zini color and fine clay texture.
Wood-fired handmade Yixing teapot made from Duanni clay sourced from the original Huanglongshan mine. Xu Shun Wei.