Li Pifang

Li Pifang, a senior craftsmaster of Yixing, was famous for her skills and talent in Yixing in the 80s. She and Prof Pan CF were regarded as famous potters with very high compliment such as 'in male potters there is Chunfang, in female potters there is Pifang' meaning literally these two were the highly skilled and talented potters among their peers. Pan Chunfang was later transferred to the Nanjing Academy of Fine Arts while Pifang remained in the Yixing factory. She later passed away at the peak of her career. Some rumour had it that she committed suicide (yet to confirm) and there seemed to be not much reporting on her death.

She came to Singapore in the 90s for an exhibition cum sale of her works. As the organiser was my close friend, I had the opportunity to meet her and buy her teapots.

This is a particular teapot design that modelled on the shape of a well. This particular teapot was acquired by Chong Nanhai (the central office of the Chinese Communist Party) of the Chinese government for permanent display. This teapot was also featured in a book written by a renown Taiwanese writer in the 80s.

Li Pifang's works are well received by collectors. It is indeed a privilege and honour to have owned such a well-made teapot.