Tea ware is a part of daily life, combining practical functionality with artistic creativity. Among its features, patterns are one of the most prominent aspects, reflecting both the wisdom of artists and the aesthetic tastes of the Chinese people. Ten specific patterns frequently appear on tea ware.
Infant Play Scene
The infant play scene depicts playful moments with children as the main subjects, often showing their recreational activities. This makes the tea ware lively and full of charm.
Fisherfolk Joy Scene
The Fisherfolk Joy Scene was widely depicted on Kangxi porcelain, representing the industrious labor and bountiful harvest of fisherfolk. When painted on tea ware, it carries the auspicious meaning of wishing for good weather and prosperity.
Ladies Scene
In China, ladies scenes are quite common. Under the skillful brushwork of artists, graceful and elegant women are vividly portrayed on tea ware. Enjoying the beauty of these figures while sipping tea is a reflection of the refined tastes of ancient times.
Crane Pattern
The use of crane patterns on tea ware dates back to the Tang Dynasty. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, graceful and elegant red-crowned cranes were commonly depicted. The crane pattern is favored by literati for its elegance, and the longevity of the red-crowned crane adds a wish for long life.
Deer Pattern
Deer are considered symbols of benevolence and indicate peace in the world. As the word for deer sounds similar to the word for “official salary,” they also symbolize success in one's career. The deer pattern not only adds beauty but also enhances the elegance of tea ware with the grace of deer.
Flower and Bird Pattern
The flower and bird pattern is one of the representative depictions of the natural world in China, filled with playful charm and vitality. It is also a way for artisans to showcase their skills, wrapping the tea in the spirit of nature. This reflects the ancient pursuit of a beautiful life.
Fish and Water Plants Pattern
The fish pattern has been a primary decorative motif in every dynasty. The word “fish” sounds like “abundance,” carrying the auspicious meanings of “wealth and abundance” and “surplus every year.”
Trailing Branch Pattern
In the Ming Dynasty, this pattern was known as “twining branches.” It is a common decorative motif using the branches or vines of plants as the framework, creating an intricate and lively design. It is often seen on commercially produced tea ware.
Peach Blossom Pattern
Peach blossoms have been the “main theme” of Chinese ceramics since the Tang Dynasty. They display various postures and exude opulence and beauty. Peach blossom patterns are most frequently used on tea ware from the Ming and Qing dynasties. The peach blossoms on the tea ware must appear even more vibrant when surrounded by tea and its fragrance.
Lotus Pattern
The lotus pattern has been popular from the Northern and Southern Dynasties through the Qing Dynasty. Because the lotus holds a special place in Buddhism and Buddhist art, it is much loved. Its elegant and refined nature is particularly suitable for tea ware and becomes a spiritual embodiment for literati to express their ideals.