This set of four tea cups is a treasure of Chinese tea culture, embodying the "Si Jun Zi" or "Four Gentlemen" motif—a profound traditional theme that uses plants to symbolize noble qualities. Each 60cc cup is crafted from antique coarse pottery porcelain, which gives it a distinctive, earthy feel that resonates with the wisdom of bygone eras.
The "Si Jun Zi" represents the virtues of four plants, each chosen for its representation of gentlemanly attributes. Wintersweet, with its resilience and the ability to bloom in the cold, symbolizes endurance and a noble spirit. The orchid, growing in seclusion yet exuding a graceful fragrance, represents humility and integrity. Bamboo is straight and hollow, suggesting uprightness and modesty, while the chrysanthemum, blooming untarnished amidst the frost, stands for steadfastness and a hermit-like purity.
Each cup in this set features one of these plants, delicately painted in cobalt blue on the off-white porcelain, a color choice that recalls the traditional blue and white ware but with a rustic charm. The cups are modestly sized, ideal for the gongfu tea ceremony, where tea is savored in small, thoughtful sips that mirror the contemplation of the virtues these plants represent.
The cups are uniform in capacity but individually unique, with each painting capturing the essence of the plant it represents. Together, they make for not only a functional set for the tea enthusiast but also a conversation piece that reflects the philosophical depth of Chinese culture. Whether used in daily practice or on special occasions, these cups offer a connection to the ancient wisdom that tea culture so often embodies.