Description (Labels & Markings)
Two small seals marked on the tip of the handle, showing the first name of the maker.
Event Date
Author: Guey-Mei Hsu

Context (Production / use)
This tool is used to make 'zisha' teapots in the Jiangsu Province of China, Cf. 2004.183, 2004.184, 2004.185, 2005.30, 2005.31, 2005.32, 2005.33. Potters often make their own tools, but this example was made by a specialist pottery tool maker. It is entirely handcrafted, from old wood recuperated from old (probably pre-1949) furniture. The tool needs to be absolutely flat, and old wood is essential as it will not shift shape over the years. The tool is used to pat the leather-hard clay into a rounded shape during the shaping of the body of the pot.
Event Date 14/10/2008
Author: maa

Description (Physical description)
Mahogany wood pottery tool.
Event Date 14/10/2008
Author: maa

Context (Display)
On display in the Zisha Ceramics case, Maudslay Gallery, from March 2008 onwards.
Event Date 3/2008
Author: Guey-Mei Hsu