橄榄壶 (Ganlan hu), literally "olive teapot," is a classic Yixing (Zisha) teapot form. Its clean, slightly elongated oval profile — reminiscent of an olive fruit — appears in the long tradition of Yixing pottery from Yixing county, Jiangsu province. While exact origins are not precisely documented, the form was refined and popularized by teapot makers from the late Ming into the Qing era and has remained a favored shape among tea connoisseurs and studio potters since then.

Shape note: the body is gently rounded with tapered ends, producing a compact, ergonomic silhouette. The spout and handle are usually well balanced around the central axis, and the low, snug-fitting lid aids heat retention and a smooth pour. Capacities are typically small, suited to gongfu-style brewing. Surface treatment ranges from plain zisha clay to carved or appliqué decoration, but the defining feature is the harmonious, olive-like contour that combines aesthetic simplicity with practical function.
Wood-fired handmade Yixing teapot made from Duanni clay sourced from the original Huanglongshan mine. Xu Shun Wei.