teaware

Teaware refers to vessels and accessories used to prepare, brew, and drink tea. The category spans everyday mugs and cups to ceremonial implements designed to influence flavor, aroma, and temperature. A typical set includes a teapot or brewing vessel, cups, a kettle for heating water, and a tray or stand for organization. In many traditions, additional pieces such as strainers or serving pitchers accompany the set.

Common items and materials: Teapots come in various designs, including porcelain, stoneware, bone china, glass, stainless steel, and clay such as Yixing zisha. A gaiwan is a three-piece lidded bowl used in Chinese tea service for short infusions. A fairness cup, or gong dao bei, equalizes strength before serving. Infusers, strainers, and storage jars function as accessories. Porous clays can absorb flavors over time, influencing future infusions.

Cultural variations: Chinese gongfu tea service emphasizes compact teapots, gaiwan, and small cups, with a serving pitcher to distribute evenly. In Japan, the tea ceremony uses chawan (tea bowls), chasen (bamboo whisk), and chashaku for preparing powdered matcha. In Britain and the broader Western world, teaware centers on the teapot, cups, a milk jug, and a sugar bowl, with an emphasis on social ritual around tea drinking.

Care and collecting: Cleaning methods vary by material; porcelain and glass are commonly washed by hand or in a dishwasher if labeled safe. Unglazed clay teapots require careful hand washing and air drying. Avoid detergents on porous surfaces; dry promptly to prevent staining. High-quality teaware can be produced by artisan potters and firms, and some pieces are collected for craftsmanship, historical significance, or cultural value.