The Chaozhou "Sha Diao" water boiling kettle is a beautiful combination of traditional craftsmanship and functional design, perfect for those who appreciate the ritual of tea brewing. With a capacity of around 540ml, this kettle is designed for personal use or for small gatherings, allowing you to share the joy of tea with others.
This kettle is meticulously formed from fair-resistant natural clay that is free from chemicals, assuring you a pure brewing experience. The kettle's light terracotta color and smooth, curved design are characteristic of the natural beauty of the clay and the artisanal expertise of Mr. Cheng Yanshuan, who handcrafts each piece with dedication and skill.
Prior to initial use, it is advised to immerse the kettle in cold water for a full day. This important step prepares the kettle for its first heating and assists in cleaning the interior, ensuring that any residues from the firing process are removed. Designed to be versatile, the kettle can be heated with a direct flame or electricity, with an alcohol lamp or electrical stove being the recommended sources of heat.
The Chaozhou "Sha Diao" kettle is built to last, but like all finely made clay products, it requires careful handling to prevent thermal shock. Sudden temperature changes should be avoided to maintain the integrity of the kettle. Over time, a small amount of seepage might occur, a natural trait of the clay that only adds to the kettle's charm and does not affect its functionality.
This kettle is not just a tool for boiling water; it is a vessel that enhances the overall tea experience. Each use is a reminder to slow down and appreciate the finer things in life, such as the art of tea making, a tradition that Mr. Cheng Yanshuan honors with each kettle he creates.
Note — why this kettle may “sweat”: This kettle is made of unglazed Chaozhou clay with a fine, natural pore structure. When it is heated — especially while it is new — tiny beads of moisture may appear on the outside, most noticeably at the bottom, much like sweat. This is not a leak: the kettle does not leak when cold, and there is no crack or hole. The micro-pores are there for a reason: while the water boils, they gently absorb impurities and off-flavors from the water — such as the chlorine taste of tap water — while the minerals in the clay soften and round out the water in return. That is why water boiled in a clay kettle like this tastes soft, smooth and slightly sweet, and why Chaozhou gongfu tea drinkers have boiled their water this way for centuries. The sweating is strongest at first and gradually lessens with regular use, as the pores take up minerals from the water and settle. It does not affect the kettle’s function.
