Teaware

 Yixing purple clay teapots, like Jingdezhen ceramics, are already world-renowned. The most prominent feature is that they do not alter the original flavor of tea, “trapping the aroma and releasing the warmth,” and with prolonged use, they can absorb the fragrance of the tea. This is because the pores in purple clay teapots are relatively large, they have a high water absorption rate, and also good breathability, so they can maintain the color, aroma, and taste of tea for a longer period. For daily maintenance, please note: after use, keep the inside of the teapot dry and avoid accumulation of moisture; when not in use, store it in a well-ventilated area, do not place it in a stuffy location, and it should not be wrapped or sealed; avoid contact with oil stains, and do not place it near places with excessive smoke or dust; actually brew tea, the more times you use it to brew tea, the more tea essence it will absorb; cleaning with a brush or cloth should be moderate, after pouring tea over the surface, use a soft-bristled small brush to wash away any residue, rinse with boiling water, then wipe lightly with a clean tea towel;…

 When purchasing a purple clay pot, enthusiasts usually fear two things the most: first, buying a fake purple clay pot, and second, buying one made with chemical additives. So how do you choose a good purple clay pot? Look at the Texture Pure purple clay pots have a restrained luster, a texture like warm jade, a stable color, and an aged appearance. With high-quality clay, you can see the effects of use within half a month. Pots made from clay with chemical additives show little change no matter how much they are used; they remain dry. Although they can create a so-called mung bean paste effect, the surface glaze (due to the addition of wood shaving water, also known as quartz water) prevents the tea water from being absorbed, and oils from handling cannot penetrate the surface. Thus, such pots will not develop a patina. Check the Water Absorption Genuine purple clay pots, except for red clay and some dun clay varieties, generally have strong water absorption properties. This is why it's often said that tea brewed in a purple clay pot tastes better than in other types of teapots. Pots made from clay with chemical additives typically lack water…

Almost all enthusiasts of purple clay teapots are also tea lovers. Because they enjoy drinking tea, they are particular about the vessels used for brewing, which is why they choose the excellent brewing tool that is the purple clay teapot. To achieve a good tea-drinking experience, brewing is indeed an important step, but storing tea also has a significant impact. Many enthusiasts use a purple clay teapot for brewing and a purple clay canister for storing tea, demonstrating a high level of attention to detail. However, just as there are specific ways to care for a purple clay teapot, there are also many nuances to consider when using a purple clay canister for storing tea. Today, I will discuss how to store tea in a purple clay canister, so your tea can be kept in the best condition possible. How to Use a Purple Clay Tea Canister? 1. Characteristics of Various Tea Canisters Tea is a dried product that can easily absorb moisture and become damp, leading to quality changes. It has a strong affinity for water, odors, and its aroma can evaporate very quickly. (Therefore, tea can also be used as a deodorizer; placed in a refrigerator, it can…

Some cities are rather awkward, being very cold in winter but not located in areas with central heating. Recently, temperatures have dropped significantly across most of the country, and this sudden temperature change can be detrimental to pots. Winter is a high-risk season for damage to purple clay pots. When using and drinking tea from your pot during the winter, please pay attention to the following points! The situations that usually lead to cracking are as follows: 1. Special clays and pot shapes: In purple clay pots, special attention should be paid to clays with high crystallinity and unevenly walled shapes (such as Gong Chun pots). Crystallinity, or the degree of vitrification during firing, is an inherent property of the clay, and different clays achieve varying degrees of crystallization when fired. Among purple clays, Zhu Ni has a higher crystallinity, followed by Zi Ni, then Lu Ni and Duan Ni. Clays such as Zhu Ni and Da Hong Pao in red clay pots have a high natural crystallinity after firing, resulting in a glassy surface. As a result, they are more prone to cracking than other clays when subjected to sudden changes in temperature during use. 2. The pot itself…

The "Cultural Revolution Teapot" refers to the teapots produced by Yixing Purple Clay Craft Factory during the Cultural Revolution from 1966 to 1976. This is unique in the history of purple clay teapot development and clearly has a certain value for collection. Most imitations of "famous artists' Cultural Revolution purple clay teapots" are made based on imagination, usually with impure clay, crude craftsmanship, and unauthentic patina; especially some imitations of "famous artists' Cultural Revolution teapots" use styles not produced during the Cultural Revolution period but have the seal of contemporary famous artists inside the lid and the square seal of "China Yixing" on the bottom, making them easy to authenticate for antique collectors. Later, finely crafted imitations of "famous artists' Cultural Revolution teapots" appeared, with accurate shapes and good craftsmanship, which are more difficult to identify. To collect the "Cultural Revolution tennis ball teapot," one should open the lid and, using bright light, look into the teapot through the spout to check the "tennis ball." If it is found that the tea leaf holes are double-layered, one should be alert as this is most likely a fake "tennis ball teapot." In summary, when authenticating a "Cultural Revolution teapot," one should…

Zisha Teapot In the early years of the Republic of China, the city of Yixing, known for its bamboo groves and kiln smoke, welcomed an ordinary day. However, in Dingshu Town, the Ceramics Apprentice School was bustling with excitement. The owners of Utilization Company, major kiln households, and prominent figures in Dingshu Town were all agitated. It turned out that a walnut-shaped teapot, created as a graduation piece at the Ceramics Apprentice School, had been made exceptionally well, drawing much attention. The walnut-shaped teapot was a specialty of renowned teacher Fan Dasheng, who had recently won a gold medal at the Panama Exposition. This particular teapot was even better than the one that had won the gold medal. Although it belonged to the same type, it was not a mere copy but instead possessed more charm and grandeur. The creator of this graduation piece was Feng Guilin, who was just a teenager at the time. As the saying goes, "A myriad of shapes emerge effortlessly from his hands, unmatched by any other." Feng Guilin's zisha teapots vary in form—some are plump, others slender; some tall, others short; some square, others round; some intricate, others simple. They often undergo changes and…

There are many teapot enthusiasts, but not all of them know how to protect their purple clay teapots. The maintenance of a purple clay teapot is particularly important, as it serves not only as a collectible but also has practical uses. Therefore, it's crucial to take good care of your purple clay teapot. 1. Fear of Dropping Purple clay teapots are especially afraid of being dropped. For ceramic products, once broken, they cannot be restored to their original state— even if repaired using techniques like copper riveting or kintsugi, the result will only be a kind of imperfect beauty. So how can you prevent dropping? When pouring tea, place another finger on the lid knob or lid, and avoid large movements. Keep the teapot in hand during the process of pouring tea, as many lids fall off during this time. Avoid imitating the tricks that teapot sellers perform, such as lids that don't fall off or lids standing upside down over the spout. These are deceptive gimmicks that could accidentally ruin your cherished teapot, resulting in a loss that outweighs any gain. Place the teapot in high places or inside cabinets where children can't reach it, and do not let…

Wuyi Rock Tea is unique with its rock aroma, attributed to the "Ultimate Mountains and Rivers." In the tea world, it's often said that "water is the father of tea, and utensils are the mother of tea," highlighting the significant impact of tea utensils on the infusion and drinking experience beyond the tea itself. The correct brewing technique and suitable utensils are crucial in bringing out the "rock aroma." The development of local standards like the "Wuyi Rock Tea Brewing and Tasting Method" and group standards such as the "Wuyi Rock Tea Brewing and Tasting Utensils" further emphasize the importance of harmonizing "tea" with "utensils." Let's explore this together today. Brewing Utensil Selection 01 Selecting appropriate utensils based on the characteristics of rock tea primarily involves choosing a water heater, brewing tools, and tasting cups. 1. Choosing a Water Heater Brewing not only requires good water quality but also the right water heating equipment. Water heaters can be categorized by material into iron, copper, silver, stainless steel, glass, and clay pots, and by heating method into electric, alcohol lamp, and charcoal-based ones. Electric Water Heater From a material perspective, enthusiasts can choose clay, purple clay, or iron pots. Clay and…

The four types of pots—Lotus Seed, Drum Imitation, Duetsphere, and Duet—are very similar and often confused. Let's clarify these four pot styles: As shown above, the Drum Imitation is generally the shortest among these four pots, with a handle that may have an inverted ear (a small ear-like protrusion at the end). The Lotus Seed pot is slightly taller than the Drum Imitation and also has an inverted ear on its handle. The Duetsphere pot is the tallest of the four, and its handle does not have an ear-like protrusion. The bottoms of the first three pots—Drum Imitation, Lotus Seed, and Duetsphere—are all fitted with a false bottom; looking straight down, there is no visible "foot," as the body curves directly to the bottom. The last style, the Duet pot, easily reveals its bottom, which features a "line" or "foot." This makes it relatively easy to distinguish. Its handle also lacks an ear-like protrusion. Lotus Seed The "Lotus Seed" pot shape consists of circles stacked from small to large, symbolizing the Chinese traditional meaning of "successive generations of noble offspring." Ancestral customs often use homophones for auspiciousness. The basic characteristics of the Lotus Seed pot are: overall fullness, broad shoulders…

Embrace the Magic of Flower Tea Flower tea is not just a beverage, it's a way of life. Whether you're seeking relaxation or simply enjoying its taste, brewing a cup of flower tea is a delight. Here, we will detail how to brew flower tea correctly so that you can enjoy a perfect cup every time. Select High-Quality Flower Tea Ingredients To brew a delicious cup of flower tea, you must start with high-quality ingredients. Whether it's rose, jasmine, or chrysanthemum tea, choose those with bright colors, intact petals, and rich fragrance. This ensures both great taste and additional health benefits. Prepare Suitable Water Quality and Temperature The quality of water used for brewing flower tea is crucial. It's best to use purified or mineral water to avoid the chlorine and impurities found in tap water, which can affect the taste of the tea. Water temperature is also key; different types of flower tea require varying temperatures. Generally, the ideal brewing temperature for flower tea is between 80°C and 90°C, ensuring the aroma and nutrients are preserved without being damaged. (Image source: Internet. Please delete if infringement occurs.) Master the Proper Amount of Tea Leaves The amount of tea leaves…

After the Laba Festival, the New Year atmosphere gradually thickens. At this time, tea shops in the capital also enter their peak season. Long queues for purchasing tea reappear in front of many old-established tea houses. Why do ordinary people concentrate on buying tea at the end of the year? On the one hand, it is to keep it for entertaining distinguished relatives and friends who come to celebrate the New Year; on the other hand, it is to prepare it as a gift when visiting during the New Year. However, when giving tea as a gift, we not only need to consider quality but also packaging issues. For a long time, we have had a misunderstanding that plain-packaged tea is fine for personal consumption, but if it’s a gift, it seems a bit lacking. To cater to such consumer psychology, the tea packaging available on the market can be said to be dazzling and varied. Taking the material of tea caddies as an example, metal ones are common, and hardwood ones are not uncommon. Some, to highlight their grade, wrap real leather around the outside of the tea caddy, and some even inlay them with jade. Frankly speaking, the…

The Southern Song Dynasty: Zhou Jichang, Lin Tinggui, et al., “Arhats Drinking Tea” Have you watched the recent hit Song Dynasty drama, "Dream of the Red Chamber"? Actress Liu Yifei plays the lead character Zhao Pan'er, who is the owner of Zhao's Teahouse and stuns viewers with her fluid tea preparation skills in her first appearance. From a tea enthusiast's perspective, the most captivating aspect of "Dream of the Red Chamber" is its portrayal of "tea culture," filled with ancient charm and texture, with tea utensils and tea-making techniques largely true to Song Dynasty style. Let’s now appreciate the exquisite saucers used by ancient people for drinking tea. In the Song Dynasty, tea was prepared by "beating and stirring" using a tea whisk to stir and strike the tea broth; saucers were designed to prevent scalding hands. Southern Song to Yuan Dynasty: Gilt Silver Flower and Bird Patterned Tea Saucer and Saucer – The Metropolitan Museum of Art, USA Collection Ruyao Porcelain Northern Song Dynasty: Ruyao Sky Blue Glazed Paulownia Petal Shaped Saucer – British Museum Collection Guan Porcelain Song Dynasty: Guan Porcelain Celadon Saucer – Palace Museum Southern Song Dynasty Guan Porcelain Saucer - Excavated from the Southern Song…

All things in this world are truly complementary and contradictory, "Brother Fine Tea" since meeting "Sister Purple Clay," it's like a "lover" meeting his "pretty maiden," they are destined to be together forever, loving tea doesn't necessarily mean loving purple clay, but those who love purple clay will certainly love tea. Regardless of whether you love purple clay because of your love for tea or vice versa, once you're in love, no one can unravel this triangular relationship, the love, hate, affection, and resentment are not just a matter of "fate." Playing with pots should be done with a content and happy mindset. You must know that "there are countless good pots in the world, and it's impossible to collect them all in one lifetime." Many pots existed before you were born which you never got to see, many more you couldn't get after you were born, and even more masterpieces will remain out of reach after you pass away. Why worry about temporary gains and losses? Life is short, and we can only say "once had" about worldly matters, there's no such thing as "eternal." Which of the famous pots that have survived through the ages hasn't changed hands…

Is it necessary to inaugurate a new purple clay teapot? A newly made purple clay teapot lacks luster. Inauguration is not mandatory, but it can help remove unwanted odors and clear any residual heat and dryness, so it is recommended. For good black tea, Pu'er tea, aged white tea, and oolong tea, one should pair them with a fine Yixing purple clay teapot, which enhances the ambiance and experience of tea drinking. Many newcomers to the world of teapots are often misled by various inauguration methods found online. In fact, a new purple clay teapot can be used directly after being cleaned with water; there is no need for a complicated inauguration process. Firstly, the master believes that whether inaugurating or nurturing the teapot, one should follow nature and use simple yet effective methods. There are two inauguration methods commonly found online: one involves using tofu placed inside the teapot and then simmered in a pot, while the other replaces tofu with sugarcane, both cooked in a similar manner. Neither method is advisable, in the master's opinion. How to properly inaugurate a teapot? The main purpose of inauguration is to address the residual earthy taste and kiln dust within the…

The four treasures of tea utensils are: the Mengchen Brewing Pot, Ruochen Cup, Yushu Kettle, and Red Clay Brazier. The Mengchen Brewing Pot is a small teapot made from Yixing purple clay. Why is it called Mengchen? According to legend, Mengchen was a famous potter from the Ming Dynasty in Jiangsu, China, surnamed Hui, who specialized in making small teapots. When used for brewing tea, these small pots retain the color, aroma, and flavor of the tea. They are durable, and even when filled with boiling water alone, they impart a tea flavor. In the heat of summer, tea left overnight does not easily sour. These teapots have strong heat resistance, so there is no risk of cracking when boiling water is poured into them during winter. Additionally, they conduct heat slowly, so they do not become too hot to handle when in use. Over time, they develop a luster and take on an antique appearance. The Ruochen Cup, often paired with the "Mengchen" as the two jewels of tea utensils, is a thin porcelain cup. It is as thin as paper and as white as snow, small and delicate, resembling half a ping-pong ball or a miniature rice bowl.…

Famous Chinese tea wares include celadon, white porcelain, and more. Where are they produced? Let’s delve into the details below. The Top Ten Production Areas for Famous Chinese Tea Wares: 1. Yue Kiln: Known for Celadon Production The Yue Kiln is a primary production site for southern celadon in ancient China. The Tang Dynasty marked the peak of Yue Kiln craftsmanship, earning it a distinguished reputation both domestically and internationally. 2. Xing Kiln: Known for White Porcelain Production The Xing Kiln was one of the earliest sites in Northern China to produce white porcelain. It was located in Neiqiu County and Lincheng County’s Qicun area, under the jurisdiction of Xingtai City, and holds a significant place in the history of Chinese ceramics. 3. Ru Kiln: Known for Sky-blue Glaze Ru Kiln is located around Qingliang Temple in today’s Baofeng, Henan Province. Named after the city of Ru during the Northern Song Dynasty, it is renowned for its celadon tea wares, including sky-blue, pea-green, and powder-blue varieties. 4. Jun Kiln: Known for Copper-red Glaze The Jun Kiln, also known as Junzhou Kiln, was established in the town of Shenhoushen, Henan Province, during the early Song Dynasty. The ancient Jun Kiln site…

If conditions permit, consider the following types of purple clay teapots: Clay: Purple clay, red clay, slope mud, etc. Pot shape: Large belly (considering that Yunnan black tea leaves are relatively large) Capacity: Over 200 milliliters Black tea is a fully fermented tea made from new shoots of appropriate tea trees, processed through withering, rolling (cutting), fermentation, and drying. Drinking it regularly not only aids digestion but also nourishes and protects the stomach, making it very suitable for winter consumption. Some people are casual about their tea drinking and will brew black tea in any cup, while others are more particular and use a purple clay teapot to enhance the lingering aroma of the black tea. Not all purple clay teapots are suitable for brewing black tea. Firstly, black tea is named for the red color of its tea soup and leaf base when brewed. Due to the dark color of the tea soup, clays such as purple clay, bottom groove green, clear purple clay, and sky blue clay are suitable. You can choose darker colored clays. If using original green or duan mud, be sure to clean them promptly to avoid unsightly tea stains. The color of the purple…

One cannot drink tea without tea ware, which refers to the specialized utensils used for brewing and drinking tea leaves, including pots, bowls, cups, trays, and saucers. The ancient Chinese were very particular about the artistry of their tea ware, which is another significant aspect of their tea-drinking culture. A set of exquisite tea ware paired with a fine tea that excels in color, fragrance, and taste can truly complement each other. As the custom of drinking tea grew in popularity and evolved over time, the variety of tea ware increased and the quality became more refined. At least ten types of tea ware are required for drinking Kung Fu tea. They are: First: Tea Pot In Chaozhou dialect, it is called "Chongguan," or sometimes "Su Guan," because it originates from Yixing, Jiangsu province, where the smallest type of Yixing clay pot is made. When selecting a tea pot, there are four criteria to consider: smallness, shallowness, evenness, and age. Tea pots come in various sizes, such as those suitable for two, three, four, or more people. Pots made by famous artisans like Mengchen, Tiehuaxuan, Qiupu, Epu, Xiaoshan, and Yuan Xisheng are highly prized. There are many shapes and sizes,…

Purple clay teapots, due to their unique material and manufacturing process, have natural pores between the particles of clay, which makes them breathable but not watertight, very suitable for brewing tea. But does achieving a good patina have anything to do with the type of tea? Does more expensive tea necessarily lead to a better-looking patina? In fact, the quality of the tea has nothing to do with the patina. It is related to the type of tea and the method used to nurture the pot, rather than the cost of the tea determining the quality of the patina. Oily teas, such as Tieguanyin, release oils during brewing that gradually permeate the surface of the pot, leading to the formation of a patina in a relatively short time, giving it an ancient and lustrous appearance. Teas like ripe Pu'er, black tea, and Tieguanyin are particularly effective for nurturing the pot. When nurturing the pot, there are two methods: one is external nurturing, where tea soup is poured over the pot body, allowing the pot to absorb the tea, then hot water is poured over it, and finally, the pot is wiped clean with a tea cloth, ensuring no tea stains…

Using a gaiwan differs between men and women. How to brew a good cup of tea with a gaiwan depends on individual circumstances. The normal capacity of a gaiwan typically ranges from 100ml to 300ml. Different people will choose according to their needs. Gaiwans preferred by women ▲Women have smaller hands, so they need more compact teaware. Women have smaller hands, so they need more compact teaware. The size of the gaiwan generally should not exceed 150ml. Therefore, the most suitable size for a gaiwan is between 100-150ml. It can be even smaller, like 80ml, as this size also exists. A 150ml gaiwan is usually about 9cm in diameter at the rim and 8cm tall. So, in my opinion, a size of 120ml would be most suitable for women. This size is moderate; if the material is thin porcelain, it won't feel heavy or hot in the hand, making it the best choice. Gaiwans preferred by men ▲Men tend to drink larger quantities of tea more frequently, so they need a larger gaiwan. Men tend to drink larger quantities of tea more frequently, so they need a larger gaiwan. The largest gaiwan is around 300cc. Anything larger than that would…

The purple clay teapot is made from clay derived from minerals. In theory, it can be used indefinitely as long as it doesn't break. However, in reality, this isn't always the case. If a teapot is well maintained, it will remain fresh over time. But if during use, its inherent nature as a purple clay teapot is lost, even if the body of the pot remains intact, it loses its significance as a purple clay teapot. To ensure longevity for your purple clay teapot, the key lies in doing these things correctly.1Initiating the TeapotUse the right method to initiate the teapot and preserve the sandy properties of the purple clay. Popular online methods such as the "apple initiation method" or the "sugarcane initiation method" can have the opposite effect and damage the teapot's breathability. 2Knocking and BumpingWhen using a purple clay teapot, handle it gently. Sometimes, a slight knock may not be immediately visible but could cause cracks during later use. Since purple clay teapots are fragile, if you have children or pets at home, make sure they are out of reach.3AdsorptionPurple clay teapots enhance the aroma of tea due to their porous structure. This porosity also makes them prone…

Tea art is all about elegance and beauty, from large-scale elements like tea mat arrangements and tea room decor to finer details like the gestures used while brewing tea. In our daily lives, when we brew tea using a purple clay teapot, we tend to do so in whatever way feels most comfortable. However, if we can make the act of brewing tea more artistic, it adds an extra touch of joy to life. The correct way to hold your teapot not only protects your precious purple clay teapot but also prevents the lid from falling off when pouring tea. It also adds a sense of elegance and grace, ensuring that when you serve a cup of tea to guests, they feel respected. Depending on the type of handle, there are roughly several ways to hold your teapot: Ear Handle Teapot The ear handle is the most common type of handle, resembling a small ear attached to the side of the teapot. How to Hold: Circle the handle with your index and middle fingers while pressing the lid knob with your thumb. Alternatively, grip the handle firmly between your thumb and middle finger, pressing the lid knob with your index…

   Tea basket is a type of container. Lu Guimeng of the Tang Dynasty wrote a poem titled “Tea Basket,” which includes the lines, “The golden knife splits the emerald bamboo, woven like slanted waves.” From this, we can infer that a tea basket was a bamboo-made tea utensil with a slanted weave pattern. The term “tea cottage” mostly refers to the small thatched hut where tea people lived. In his poem “Tea Cottage,” Pi Rixiu of the Tang Dynasty wrote, "Perched on the sunny cliffs, this humble abode is alive and vibrant for days. Red water is drawn from the shed, and firewood and bracken are roasted before the hearth. After the old man grinds the tea, the middle-aged woman takes a break from pounding tea. Facing each other as they close the wooden gate, the fragrance fills the mountains under the moon." The poem depicts the arduous process of tea-making by the dwellers of the tea cottage, including roasting, grinding (crushing), boiling, and pounding tea. In ancient times, people used a charcoal stove to boil tea. Since the Tang Dynasty, the stove used for boiling tea was commonly referred to as a “tea stove.” According to the biography…

     Firstly, purple clay teapots are beautiful, with a variety of shapes—angular goods, plain goods, flowered goods, and so many more that they can be dazzling and overwhelming, making it difficult to know where to start. Sometimes you like everything, but after a while, you might not like anything at all—it truly is a matter of personal taste. Firstly, you should figure out what truly moves you and makes you feel the beauty. This varies from person to person. For example, some may appreciate the beauty of lines, the grandeur of the design, or the elegance of simplicity. This simplifies things considerably. By focusing on one aspect, you will find many beautiful objects and discover much joy. Gradually develop your interest, expanding from a single point to a broader perspective. Slowly improve your aesthetic sense, broaden your appreciation, and elevate your standards of evaluation. When evaluating a teapot, you can consider the five main elements—"clay, shape, craftsmanship, engraving, and signature"—and the four major factors—"spirit, form, atmosphere, and attitude." This can be a complex process, often leaving one feeling lost and disoriented. We should start by looking at the overall shape, assessing whether the overall lines are well-proportioned, much like…