Vintage Yixing Teapot Foo Dog Guardian Lion Zisha Square Circle Factory 1 Boxed

This is a rare and highly collectible vintage Yixing teapot from the iconic Square Circle Brand (方圆牌), made at Factory 1 in Yixing, China during the peak of the export era (late 1980s to early 1990s).

Crafted from authentic duanni zisha clay (段泥) with a natural matte brown finish, this teapot features a fully sculpted Foo Dog (Chinese Guardian Lion) — a protective and auspicious symbol in Chinese culture. The teapot’s body is rotund with four paw-like feet, while the lid forms the lion's grinning face, topped with a ridge-like horn and surrounded by decorative studs, symbolizing strength and vigilance.

This piece retains its original Square Circle red diamond label, green “Made in China” sticker, and comes in its original silk brocade presentation box with yellow satin lining — a hallmark of authentic Factory 1 export sets.

A rare and symbolic Yixing pot — both decorative and functional — with deep cultural meaning.

Key Features:

• Factory: Factory 1 – Yixing, Jiangsu, China

• Brand: Square Circle (方圆牌)

• Clay: Duanni zisha (段泥) – yellow-brown mineral clay, unglazed, natural speckling

• Design: Sculptural Foo Dog / Guardian Lion form with armor-style rivets and four feet

• Seals: Deep molded Square Circle base seal + matching oval lid seal

• Labels: Original Square Circle export label + green “Made in China” oval

• Box: Brocade presentation box with traditional toggle clasp and gold satin lining

• Strainer: Dual-hole interior filter

• Era: Circa 1989–1993

Condition:

Excellent – unused vintage condition with minor age patina; no chips or cracks

Perfect For:

✔️ Yixing and Zisha Clay Collectors

✔️ Lovers of Chinese Symbolism and Cultural Decor

✔️ Gongfu Tea Practitioners

✔️ Feng Shui or Zodiac Gift Ideas

This teapot is part of a limited production export series of character teapots from Factory 1. It’s an excellent display piece or functional pot for Gongfu brewing — an auspicious symbol to bring protection and fortune to your tea table.