What is Chinese tea set?
Chinese tea utensils are an important part of tea culture, not only satisfying the practical needs of brewing and tasting tea but also showcasing rich cultural connotations in their forms and designs, reflecting respect for tea leaves. Based on function and usage scenarios, Chinese tea utensils can be divided into the following categories.
1. Utensils for Brewing Tea
1. Gaiwan
- Function: A gaiwan consists of a bowl, lid, and saucer, suitable for brewing green and white tea, effectively controlling water temperature.
- Usage: Place the appropriate amount of tea leaves in the gaiwan, pour in hot water, cover with the lid, and after a moment, use the lid to filter the tea and drink directly.
2. Teapot
- Function: The teapot is the main utensil for brewing tea, suitable for various types of tea, especially oolong and black tea.
- Usage: Add tea leaves to the teapot, pour in hot water, and after a certain period, pour out the tea.
3. Yixing Teapot
- Function: Famous for its unique purple clay and breathability, suitable for brewing black and oolong tea, enhancing the aroma and flavor of the tea.
- Usage: Warm the teapot with hot water, add tea leaves, pour in hot water, and wait a moment before drinking.
4. Tea Infuser Cup
- Function: Used for directly brewing tea leaves, suitable for teas that can be infused directly.
- Usage: First, add tea leaves, then pour in hot water to brew.
2. Common Utensils on the Tea Table
1. Fairness Cup
- Function: Also known as a tea sea, used to hold brewed tea, ensuring each cup has consistent strength.
- Usage: Pour the tea from the teapot into the fairness cup, then distribute it into individual tea cups.
2. Tasting Cup
- Function: Used for guests to taste the tea, typically designed small for easy comparison.
- Usage: Pour the tea into the tasting cup and savor it.
3. Tea Strainer
- Function: Used to filter tea leaves, preventing residue from entering the cup.
- Usage: Place over the cup while pouring tea, allowing the tea to flow through into the cup.
4. Tea Knife and Tea Needle
- Function: Used to pry apart compressed tea cakes and clean tea utensils.
- Usage: Insert the tea needle or knife into the compressed tea and gently pry to separate the leaves.
5. Tea Canister
- Function: Used for storing tea, keeping it fresh and aromatic.
- Usage: Place dried, sealed tea inside, avoiding direct sunlight and moisture.
6. Tea Tongs
- Function: Used to pick up tea leaves, ensuring hygiene.
- Usage: Use the tongs to easily grab tea leaves, avoiding direct hand contact.
7. Tea Tube
- Function: Similar to a tea canister but typically larger.
- Usage: Store tea needles, tea knives, tea spoons, etc., for convenient use at the tea table.
8. Tea Pet
- Function: A decorative item on the tea table, often used to enhance aesthetics and atmosphere.
- Usage: Can be placed on the tea table to add charm as tea is brewed.
9. Tea Spoon
- Function: Used to scoop tea leaves.
- Usage: Use the spoon to easily extract the right amount of tea leaves for brewing.
3. Tea Utensils Reflecting Personal Style
1. Host Cup
- Function: Represents the host's style, typically featuring unique designs and personalized elements.
- Usage: The host cup can be used for special occasions, reflecting the host's aesthetic and taste.
2. Tea Plate
- Function: An artistic piece on the tea table, often used to display the beauty of tea leaves.
- Usage: Place the pried dry tea on the tea plate for both beauty and practicality, enhancing the elegance of the tea setting.
Chinese tea utensils are not just practical tools but also cultural expressions. Each utensil has its unique function and usage, helping tea enthusiasts experience the beauty and depth of tea. By thoughtfully selecting and pairing tea utensils, you can create a unique tea culture atmosphere at home and enjoy this elegant lifestyle.
The above is just a brief description of common tea utensils on the tea table. In reality, Chinese tea utensils are very diverse, and the iDTEA team will gradually introduce exquisite tea utensils, allowing you to experience the charm of Chinese tea!
Here is IDTEA (www.idtea.com), a professional tea selection platform, offering global shipping and delivery to your home, helping you discover Chinese tea and savor its flavors.
