In Yixing, Jiangsu Province, where misty mountains meet ancient kilns, 26-year-old Xu Qu is redefining a centuries-old craft—one pinch of zisha clay at a time. 🌱
Born into a family of teapot artisans, Xu represents the seventh generation to master zisha, a unique purple clay found only in this region. 'It’s like conducting an orchestra,' she says, her hands smoothing raw clay into curves. 'Every step—mining, weathering, molding, firing—flows like a river. You can’t rush nature.'
While her TikTok followers (@ClayWithXu) adore her time-lapse crafting videos, Xu emphasizes deeper roots: 'Zisha isn’t just about teapots. It’s about patience. The clay teaches you to breathe, to listen.'
Her latest project? Collaborating with Gen-Z designers to create minimalist zisha accessories, blending tradition with streetwear vibes. 'Tradition isn’t a museum piece,' she laughs. 'It’s alive—just like the clay.'
