This is a traditional Chinese ceramic clay pot (often referred to as a Chinese casserole or soup pot), specifically featuring the embossed brand or style name "LONG TOU" on the front and the lid. Key Characteristics: • Material: It is made of thick, glazed earthenware or stoneware clay, which provides exceptional heat retention and slow, even distribution. • Design: The pot features a prominent ribbed pattern around the base, sturdy loop handles on both sides, a raised lid with a ventilation hole, and bold relief lettering. • Primary Use: These traditional pots are highly favored in Cantonese and Hakka cuisine. They are predominantly used on gas stovetops to slow-cook traditional Chinese herbal soups (老火靓汤), braised stews, and herbal medicinal remedies. A 27cm outer diameter is a very standard large size for this type of traditional Chinese ceramic clay pot. Capacity & Serving Estimation: • Capacity: A 27cm diameter pot typically holds around 4.5 to 5.5 liters (approximately 4.7 to 5.8 quarts) depending on the exact depth. • Serving Size: This volume is ideal for family-sized cooking, comfortably serving 5 to 7 people. It is perfect for simmering a whole chicken, large quantities of root vegetables (like lotus root or radish), and dense medicinal herbs without boiling over. Essential Usage & Care Tips for this Size: • Open Flame Only: These traditional earthenware pots are explicitly designed for gas stovetops or direct open flames. They cannot be used on induction cooktops because the ceramic material lacks magnetic properties. • Prevent Thermal Shock: Never place a cold clay pot directly onto a high flame, and never pour cold water into a scorching hot pot. Sudden, extreme temperature shifts will crack the clay. Always heat and cool the pot gradually. • Initial Seasoning: Before using it for the first time, it is highly recommended to season it to seal the micro-pores in the clay. The easiest way is to fill the pot with water and a handful of white rice (or leftover rice water), then simmer it on low heat until it forms a thick porridge. Let it cool down completely inside the pot before washing