I'm actually here in Yixing with the guy that runs that Chinese Clayart company. I don't think the clays are "bogus" in any sense other than they are the clays that are available here in general bulk and are being used for a huge amount of the production here.GreenwoodStudio wrote:Also, I don't believe the clays from that company are genuine. They are most likely just loaded with stains to achieve the color. Personally I would not drink any tea that came into contact with that bare clay. Just an FYI
The true GOOD clay seems to be reserved for the people who are making work that likely few of the TeaChat folks could / would afford. For example, we just got back from the studio of an artist whose teapots average $19,000.00 US each. (Beautiful stuff) HE'S using the "good clay".
If you want a good read, pick up the book a friend of mine (may he rest in peace) wrote on Yixing Teapots..... Marvin Sweet. Good book.
best,
................john