The most expensive Chinese teapot ever sold at auction is a 20th-century Yixing zisha clay teapot crafted by Gu Jingzhou (顧景舟), one of China’s most revered master artisans. In 2014, his teapot titled "Nine Dragons Teapot" (九頭咏梅茶具) sold for HK89.6million(USD11.6 million) at a China Guardian auction in Hong Kong. This set included a teapot, cups, and a tray, all intricately carved with dragon motifs, showcasing Gu’s unparalleled craftsmanship.
Other Notable High-Value Chinese Teapots
- Gu Jingzhou’s "Xi Shi" Teapot (2010)
Sold for HK12.32million( USD1.6 million) at Christie’s Hong Kong. Named after the legendary Chinese beauty Xi Shi, it exemplifies minimalist elegance and technical perfection.
- Ming Dynasty Shi Dabin Teapots
Teapots by Shi Dabin (時大彬), a Ming Dynasty (16th–17th century) master, are considered priceless. Few survive, and most reside in museums like the Palace Museum, Beijing. In 2008, a Shi Dabin teapot sold privately for an estimated USD $1.2–1.5 million.
- Qing Dynasty Imperial Teapots
Teapots made for emperors (e.g., Qianlong or Kangxi) in the Forbidden City workshops often fetch millions. A Qianlong-era Yixing teapot with imperial inscriptions sold for HK
18.9million( USD2.4 million) in 2017.
- Modern Masterpieces
Works by Wang Yinxian (汪寅仙), contemporary "National Treasure" artisans, regularly sell for USD $500,000–1 million+.
Why Are These Teapots So Valuable?
Artisan Prestige: Gu Jingzhou is dubbed the "Great Master of Purple Clay," and his works are rare (only ~40 confirmed pieces exist).
Historical Significance: Ming/Qing teapots represent the zenith of Yixing craftsmanship, often tied to imperial patronage.
Material Rarity: Authentic Yixing zisha clay (from Jiangsu, China) is scarce, especially rare subtypes like zhuni or dicaoqing.
Provenance: Imperial or celebrity ownership (e.g., teapots gifted to foreign dignitaries) adds immense value.
Key Records
Most Expensive Single Teapot: Gu Jingzhou’s "Nine Dragons" set (2014, USD $11.6 million).
Most Expensive Antique: A Qianlong-era Yixing teapot (USD $2.4 million in 2017).
Important Notes
Many top-tier teapots are held in museums or private collections and rarely appear on the market.
Forgeries are rampant; auction houses like Sotheby’s or Christie’s rigorously vet authenticity.
If you’re seeking investment-grade teapots, prioritize pieces by nationally recognized masters or imperial-era works with documented provenance. These items blend art, history, and cultural heritage, making them enduringly valuable.
