Outer diameter 15.3cm,
Inner diameter 14.3 cm,
Height 3.8cm.
This is a specialized charcoal tray used in the traditional Chaozhou Gongfu tea ceremony. Made from the distinctive Chaozhou red mud pottery, it has a rustic and robust appearance with a rich, earthy red hue. The tray is specifically designed to hold and manage charcoal, which is used to heat the water for brewing tea in this intricate ceremony.
The choice of material is significant; Chaozhou red mud pottery is renowned for its high iron content, which provides excellent heat retention and resistance, making it an ideal medium for a charcoal tray. This pottery is also valued for its aesthetic qualities, adding a touch of traditional elegance to the tea brewing process.
In terms of usage, the tray is designed to accommodate different types of charcoal, such as olive, longan, black olive, and walnut. Longan charcoal is often preferred for its consistent heat and subtle aromatic contribution to the water’s boiling process, enhancing the tea's flavor.
The tray's size is crafted to allow for appropriate ventilation and space to manage the charcoal effectively, ensuring a steady heat source for the tea kettle. This tool not only serves a functional purpose but also embodies the cultural heritage and craftsmanship of Chaozhou tea culture.