The name 大方壶 (dàfāng hú) literally translates as “large square (or great square) teapot.” The exact, canonical definition of this specific term is not widely standardized in the literature, so it is safest to interpret it as a square- or rectilinear-bodied teapot form rather than a single historically fixed model.

General historical context: angular and geometric teapot shapes have appeared intermittently in Chinese ceramic and Yixing (zisha) traditions from the late Ming into the Qing dynasty and later. Yixing potters in particular developed many named forms—round, pear-shaped, and angular—valued by scholars and collectors for their craftsmanship and material. Square forms were appreciated for a restrained, architectural aesthetic and for demonstrating a maker’s skill in producing crisp edges and well‑fitting lids.

About the shape: a “dàfāng” teapot typically emphasizes straight planes and right angles—boxy body, flat or slightly recessed lid, and a spout and handle integrated to preserve the geometric silhouette. Such forms require precise slab construction or moulding and careful lid-and-spout alignment to seal and pour well. Materials may include zisha clay or stoneware/porcelain; the angular profile offers a strong visual contrast to more common rounded teapots and suits a minimalist, scholarly taste.
Wood-fired handmade Yixing teapot made from Duanni clay sourced from the original Huanglongshan mine. Xu Shun Wei.