Notable Examples
1. The "Phoenix" Teapot (Qing Dynasty)
Mechanism: Rotating base opened a compartment when turned 45 degrees.
Legend: Used to smuggle imperial edicts during rebellions.
2. Persian "Zolfaghar" Teapots
Feature: A secondary spout activated by pressing a hidden leaf motif.
Function: Poured two different liquids (e.g., tea and rosewater).
3. Japanese "Kakure" (Hidden) Teapots
Design: Tea leaves entered through a detachable knob, hiding their quality from guests.
How Were These Mechanisms Made?
Clay Engineering: Multi-layered pottery with air pockets.
Metalwork: Bronze springs in Ottoman "clockwork" teapots.
Wooden Puzzles: Burmese lacquer teapots with sliding panels.
Modern Rediscoveries
Museum Studies: CT scans reveal sealed compartments in antique teapots.
Collector’s Market: Authentic "spy teapots" auction for over $20,000.
