The Chinese name 小龙壶 (xiǎo lóng hú) literally translates as "little dragon teapot." Without a clear, widely standardized reference or a detailed photograph, the exact canonical form called by this name is ambiguous — it may refer either to a small teapot decorated with dragon imagery or to a particular small-model shape given that name by a maker.

Safe historical context: small, named teapot forms are a long-standing part of Chinese teaware traditions, especially in the Yixing (Zisha) pottery lineage from Jiangsu province. From the late Ming and through the Qing dynasties, potters developed many named shapes and animal- or motif-themed designs for gongfu cha (concentrated tea) preparation. Artisans often gave pieces evocative names (flowers, animals, mythic creatures) tied to decoration, molded details, or the pot’s silhouette. Dragon motifs are traditional auspicious symbols in Chinese decorative arts and frequently appear in relief, carving, or applied ornament on vessels.

Shape note: a "little" dragon teapot would typically be compact—designed for one or two people—emphasizing balanced proportions, a precise lid fit, and a short, controlled spout for pourability. Dragon elements, if present, may appear as carved relief, applied handles/spouts, or a sculpted lid-knob, but exact features depend on the maker and period.
Wood-fired handmade Yixing teapot made from Duanni clay sourced from the original Huanglongshan mine. Xu Shun Wei.