As a bright pearl in Chinese tea culture, the purple clay pot is loved by tea people for its simple and elegant temperament and unique practical functions. Among the many purple clay pots, there is a phenomenon that often arouses heated discussions among collectors and enthusiasts, that is, the so-called "yin and yang face" phenomenon. This article will explain in simple terms the reasons for the formation of the "yin and yang face" of the purple clay pot and the aesthetic value of the craftsmanship behind it.
1. What is the "yin and yang face" of the purple clay pot?The term "yin and yang face" in the field of purple clay pot specifically refers to the phenomenon of obvious differences in the color of the inside and outside of the pot, just like the difference in skin color on the left and right sides of the human face, so it is vividly called "yin and yang face". In this case, the color of the outer wall of the purple clay pot may be deep and stable, but the inner wall may show a lighter color, or vice versa, forming a sharp contrast. Second, the influence of the nature of the mud1.The difference of raw ore mud The primary factor for the color change of the purple clay pot is the mud. Purple sand mud is composed of a variety of mineral components, including quartz, mica, clay and iron. The difference in the content of these minerals, as well as the difference in particle size and shape, will lead to a change in color after firing. For example, parts of the mud with a high iron content are more likely to reddene in a high-temperature oxidizing atmosphere, while parts with a low iron content may remain their original color or be darker. 2.Differences between the inner and outer clay mixtureIn the production process, sometimes in order to achieve a certain special effect, the craftsman may choose different textures or different mining areas to make the inner and outer walls of the pot separately. This kind of differentiated collocation makes the pot after firing, due to the different physical and chemical reactions of each part of the mud, and finally presents the visual effect of "yin and yang face". 
3. Artistic interpretation of the firing process1.Control of temperature and atmosphereDuring the firing process of the purple clay pot in the kiln, factors such as the temperature level, the heating rate and the flame atmosphere (oxidation or reduction) will have a direct impact on the color of the pot. For example, in the reducing atmosphere, iron is easily converted into a low-valence state, which makes the pot body dark red; In the oxidizing atmosphere, iron mostly exists in the ** state, showing a lighter yellow-brown or purple color. If the inside and outside are heated or the atmosphere is uneven, a "yin and yang face" may appear. 2.During the firing process of the special purple clay pot with partial shielding and glaze treatment, the craftsman will use the shielding material to adjust the heating situation of different parts of the pot body, resulting in the difference between the internal and external colors. In addition, the addition of glaze or local polishing on the inside of some purple clay pots will also cause a significant color contrast between the inner wall and the untreated outer wall after firing. 
Fourth, the "yin and yang face" and aesthetic implications1.The beauty of nature and the ingenious "yin and yang face" phenomenon are not flaws in the full sense, on the contrary, for some Zisha artists who pursue nature and advocate change, this unexpected effect precisely reflects the creation of nature and the mysterious beauty that cannot be precisely controlled by human beings. It sublimates the production process of the purple clay pot into a drama of potters and fire and dance, full of unknowns and expectations. 2.In traditional Chinese philosophical thought, "yin and yang" represent the universal law of the unity of opposites in the universe. The phenomenon of "yin and yang face" of the purple clay pot can be endowed with such a philosophical connotation, which symbolizes harmony and inclusiveness, vividly interprets the ancient Chinese Tai Chi philosophy of "yang in yin, yin in yang", and enhances the artistic value and humanistic connotation of the purple clay pot. 
The "yin and yang face" of the purple clay pot is not only the result of a firing process, but also an artistic expression that transcends conventional aesthetics. It shows us the unique charm of the purple clay pot as a work of art, and at the same time allows us to better understand and respect the accidents and uncertainties that lurk in the production process, and it is these unpredictable factors that make the purple clay pot ever-changing, making each pot a unique existence and telling its own story. The "yin and yang face" of the purple sand pot is like a mirror, reflecting the wonderful realm of purple sand art and the profound craft tradition. In the face of this strange phenomenon, we should appreciate and study it with awe, because every seemingly imperfect trace may contain profound cultural significance and artistic value. With the in-depth understanding of the purple clay pot, we can not only better appreciate the tea in our hands, but also experience the long-lasting charm and infinite charm of traditional Chinese culture. Hotspot Engine Program