tasseographers

Tasseography is a method of divination that interprets patterns formed by tea leaves, coffee grounds, or wine sediments in a cup. Practitioners, known as tasseographers, observe the shapes, symbols, and arrangements of these residues to gain insights into the past, present, or future. The practice is believed to have originated in ancient China and later spread to other parts of the world, becoming popular in Europe during the 17th century.

The process typically involves brewing tea or coffee with loose leaves or grounds, rather than using tea bags or pre-ground coffee. After the beverage is consumed, the cup is swirled a few times and then inverted onto a saucer, allowing the remaining liquid to drain and the residues to settle on the bottom and sides of the cup. The tasseographer then examines these patterns, often using a specific set of interpretations for common shapes like animals, objects, or human figures. The meaning attributed to these symbols can vary widely depending on cultural context and the individual tasseographer's training and intuition.

While widely considered a pseudoscience, tasseography remains a popular form of divination and is practiced by many individuals for personal insight and entertainment. Its appeal lies in its simple methodology and the evocative nature of the abstract patterns formed by the tea leaves or coffee grounds, which can stimulate imagination and personal reflection.