Taiwan is well known for its exceptional teaware, and this yellowish green-speckled porcelain gaiwan has been handcrafted there. The unusual olive green crystalline accent is known as tea dust, or cháyè mò, a glaze that was originally developed in Tang dynasty (618-907 A.D.) and later revived during the Qing Dynasty for use on imperial ware. The rich hue is matched by superior heat-retention properties, enabling this vessel to be used for everyday tea drinking or for more formal gongfu cha service.

The gaiwan’s body, or wan, evolved from the simple bowl originally used to hold powdered tea. The wide shape allows the leaves to expand and release their full potential of fragrance and flavor while the fluted edge stays cool, enabling one to grasp and pour. The lid, or gai ("to cover"), is essential as a strainer; tilted open, it allows the infusion to be decanted while holding back the tea leaves.

Gaiwans come in many sizes and materials; try incorporating one into your brewing practice to experiment with multiple infusions, and savor how the tea leaves’ appearance and taste evolves through each.

Measures 3.5" H, 3.75" W

Please note, due to the handcrafted nature of this piece, glaze color may vary between earthy olive green to deep mustard yellow.