In the long history of Chinese Tea culture, both pointing Tea and brewing hold significant positions. Pointing tea is a unique form of tea art from the Song Dynasty, while brewing represents modern tea art. Let's explore these two forms of tea art together and appreciate the beauty of traditional and contemporary tea arts.
(Image source: Internet, to be deleted upon request)
What is Pointing Tea?
Pointing tea, also known as “Tea Hundred Games,” is an exquisite form of tea art that originated in the Song Dynasty. Emperor Huizong described the process of pointing tea in detail in “Da Guan Tea Treatise.” This form of tea art, with its intricate techniques and unique cultural background, became a symbol of Song Dynasty tea culture.
The basic procedure for pointing tea involves grinding tea cakes into fine powder, using a tea whisk (a bamboo tea brush) to mix the tea powder with hot water, stirring quickly to create a thick tea soup, and finally forming a delicate foam on the surface of the tea soup. The finer and longer-lasting the foam, the more skilled the pointing tea technique.
Historical Background of Pointing Tea
The Song Dynasty was an era that valued governance through culture and pursued a high quality of life. With social stability and economic development, tea culture flourished during the Song Dynasty, and pointing tea gradually became part of the refined lifestyle pursued by literati and scholars. Pointing tea was not just a way of drinking tea but also an embodiment of aesthetic and spiritual pursuits.
(Image source: Internet, to be deleted upon request)
In the Song Dynasty, pointing tea was often combined with “tea competition,” becoming an activity where literati and scholars could exchange ideas and refine their skills. Competitors would test each other with their best teas to see who could produce the finest and most enduring foam.
Tools and Techniques of Pointing Tea
Pointing tea requires specialized tools, including tea cups, tea whisks, and tea bowls. Among them, the production of the tea whisk is particularly meticulous, typically made from old bamboo to ensure its toughness and durability. The techniques of pointing tea require long-term practice and skillful handling to complete within a few minutes.
The process of pointing tea is very particular about speed and technique, usually completed within 10 minutes from start to finish to maintain the temperature of the tea soup and the stability of the foam. Skilled pointing tea masters can even paint on the surface of the tea soup, showcasing rich artistic effects.
(Image source: Internet, to be deleted upon request)
The Art of Modern Brewing
Compared to pointing tea, modern brewing places more emphasis on the original flavor and aroma of the tea leaves, and the methods are more diverse. The basic steps include warming the cup, rinsing the tea, brewing, serving, and tasting, each with its own unique requirements.
Commonly used tea utensils in modern brewing include teapots, teacups, and tea trays. Different types of tea require different utensils and brewing methods to fully bring out the aroma and taste of the tea. For example, Green Tea is best brewed in a glass cup to appreciate its clear color, while Black Tea is better suited to a purple clay pot to retain its rich aroma.
Comparison between Pointing Tea and Brewing
Although both pointing tea and brewing are important components of tea art, they have significant differences in terms of techniques and cultural background. Pointing tea emphasizes the combination of skill and art, focusing on the formation of foam and the aesthetics of the tea soup; while brewing places more emphasis on the quality of the tea leaves and the taste of the tea soup.
Pointing tea is a highly performative form of tea art, often performed in social settings and has a high degree of观赏 value. Brewing, on the other hand, is a more daily way of drinking tea, placing more emphasis on personal enjoyment and experience.
Conclusion
Whether it is traditional pointing tea or modern brewing, both embody the essence of tea art and the rich connotations of tea culture. By learning about and experiencing these two forms of tea art, we can not only enjoy the aroma and taste of tea but also appreciate the vastness and charm of tea culture.
Let us savor the tranquility and elegance in the process of drinking tea and enjoy the beautiful moments brought by tea art.