紫砂
Term · Clay and pot shapes
zisha
Literal meaning
purple sand
Definition#
Zisha is a family of ceramic materials associated with Yixing, Jiangsu, and the ware made from them, commonly unglazed. It includes several named clay bodies, not just purple clay. Raw material, prepared body and fired vessel should be distinguished; a trade name or colour alone does not establish composition or provenance.
Translation and usage#
| Language | Use | Alternatives & cautions |
|---|---|---|
| English | zisha Yixing clay pinyin with a gloss |
Also acceptable
|
| Deutsch | Zisha Yixing-Ton pinyin with a gloss |
Also acceptable
|
| Русский | цзыша исинская глина pinyin with a gloss |
Also acceptable
|
| 简体字繁體字 | 紫砂 | |
| 日本語 | 紫砂 |
Common confusions#
- Zisha is the broader family; zini is a particular clay designation. Chemical percentages measured in individual samples are not specifications for every pot sold under a clay name.