Other Zisha Clay Formulation Techniques

Listen to the Editorial Conversation for this chapter:

Tiaosha (调砂), Pusha (铺砂), and Chousha (抽砂)

Tiaosha (调砂, “speckled clay”)[1] is a set of techniques in which larger grains of processed zisha material is mixed into a base clay[2], creating a combination of contrasting colors, increased material-strength, and textural effects.

Tiaosha is both a specific technique and an umbrella term that encompasses two related techniques of Pusha (铺砂) and Chousha (抽砂); Tiaosha is the mixing of zisha grains into a base clay, Pusha is the placement of contrasting ore grains onto the surface of the molded ware, and Chousha is a specific particle size distribution achieved through the removal of the median sized grains. All three methods are often collectively called “Tiaosha”, while fewer fellow pedants use the more precise term[3].

Tiaosha techniques[4] have been in use since the mid-Ming dynasty, and many of the earliest teapots show the addition of coarser grains. The wares of Chen Zhongmei (陈仲美; f. Wanli period, 1573 – 1620 CE), a Ming craftsman, are notable for their early use of Tiaosha techniques for texture and strength.