半圆壶

English working translation

"Half-Circle Teapot with Ribbed Lid" Purple Clay Teapot

The body of the purple clay teapot is semi-circular in form. It features decorative ribbed lines around the rim, which not only facilitate the fitting of the lid but also enhance the refined elegance of the overall form. The curved spout extends with momentum, its reverse curve measured and controlled. The handle is elliptical, echoing the rounded and flowing artistic style of the vessel.

This teapot represents an excellent work created through the artistic friendship between Gu Jingzhou and Ling Xu[1] and Cui Hu[2]. The front is inscribed with "Harmonious tea fragrance overflows, for Mr. Jingzhou's refined enjoyment, Cui Hu." The reverse features Ling Xu's "Fish at Play," depicting three fish of varying sizes swimming freely through a lotus pond, their postures light and nimble, conveying a sense of carefree contentment.

Artist Biographies

Ling Xu (July 1919–)[1]: Also known as Wan Xiang and Ruilang Yezhang, native of Huzhou, Zhejiang. Specialized in Chinese painting and folk woodblock New Year prints. Graduated from the Chinese Painting Department of Shanghai Xinhua Art Academy in 1941. Served as instructor at Shanghai Art Academy, Xingzhi Art School, and the Art Department of Anhui Normal University, as well as creative staff member at the Suzhou Taohuawu Woodblock New Year Print Society. Representative works include One Hundred Fish Scroll and Cold Mountain Temple Outside Gusu City.

Cui Hu[2]: Native of Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, born in Taicang in 1924. Prior to retirement, served as Director of the Design Office at the Suzhou Arts and Crafts Research Institute, Senior Arts and Crafts Master, and member of the Chinese Calligraphers Association. Developed an early love for calligraphy and painting, becoming a private student of Wu Hufan. His calligraphy excels in the Zhao Mengfu style of running script, characterized by fresh elegance and graceful refinement.

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[1] Ling Xu (1919.7–) [2] Cui Hu (1924–)