Collection: Teawares

Teawares in China have a rich and diverse history, reflecting the country's deep cultural connection with tea. Chinese teawares are not only functional but also artistic, often embodying the philosophical and aesthetic principles valued in Chinese culture.

General Chinese Teawares

1. Teapots: The most iconic teaware, Chinese teapots are usually made from clay, porcelain, or glass. The Yixing clay teapot, from the Jiangsu province, is particularly renowned for its porous nature, which absorbs the flavors of the teas brewed in it over time.

2. Tea Cups: Typically smaller than Western tea cups, they are often made of porcelain and can be exquisitely decorated with Chinese motifs.

3. Tea Trays: Used to hold the teaware and catch any overflow or spillage, these trays can be made of bamboo, wood, or stone.

4. Tea Tools: These include various items such as tea scoops, tea needles, and tongs, often made of bamboo or other fine woods, and are used to handle the tea and teawares during the tea-making process.

Gongfu Tea Ceremony Teawares

The Gongfu tea ceremony, a Chinese method of tea brewing, utilizes specific teawares:

1. Gaiwan: A lidded bowl used for infusing tea leaves. It can be made of porcelain, glass, or clay.

2. Tea Pitcher (Gong Dao Bei / Cha Hai): Used to ensure the consistency of the flavor of the tea by holding the tea after it's brewed in the Gaiwan or teapot before serving it into individual cups.

3. Aroma Cups: Small, tall cups used to enjoy the aroma of the tea before drinking.

4. Strainers: Often used with a holder, they filter out tea leaves when pouring tea into the pitcher or cups.

5. Tea Pets: Small clay figurines that are often placed on tea trays during the Gongfu tea ceremony for decorative purposes.

The Gongfu tea ceremony is much more than a method of brewing tea; it's a meditative, aesthetic experience. The teawares used in this ceremony are not only functional but are also admired for their beauty and craftsmanship, reflecting the Chinese appreciation of balance and harmony in both art and life.