True centrepieces of the art of the table, the accessories of the tea set allow you to savour a quality tea with loved ones. The tea set has crossed ages and cultures, particularly in China. Whether modern or vintage in style, with or without decoration, Chinese tea sets come in many different forms. The accessories, such as the teapot, cups or tray, are crafted from different materials. Let us look at the details to consider before purchasing your Chinese tea set.
Clay, porcelain or glass: choosing a Chinese tea set
For a small or large occasion, the Chinese tea set is perfect for performing the Gong Fu Cha ceremony. So, depending on the tea, what should you choose between ceramic or glass accessories?
Ceramic for a vintage Chinese tea set
Among the ceramic tea sets, one can mention those made of porcelain and those made of Yixing clay.
A Chinese porcelain set
Opt for a set composed of porcelain pieces. Each white accessory enhances the colour of the tea. You can taste several teas with a Chinese porcelain set. However, as it retains little heat, it is ideal for delicate teas such as green, white or yellow tea. Finally, between an entirely white set or one with Chinese decoration, the choice is yours.
Choosing a Yixing clay set
Yixing earthenware accessories are renowned. Without decoration, this porous ceramic retains the tannins of the tea and memorises its fragrance. You will therefore only be able to steep one type of tea with this Asian set, as it absorbs the flavour with each infusion. Sturdy, this traditional set retains heat and is perfect for strong teas, such as black or oolong tea.
A modern touch with an Asian glass set
Glass is frequently used for Chinese tea sets. This affordable material offers a great experience when tasting tea. Indeed, the accessories allow you to observe the dance of the tea leaves during steeping. You will also admire the colour of your different teas. Opt for double-walled cups to avoid burning your hands.
Teapot, cups, tray and other pieces: which accessories for a Chinese tea set?
You will find simple Chinese tea sets, comprising a teapot and a few cups. But also more complete sets for performing the Gong Fu Cha.
- The teapot. The Chinese teapot is often small in capacity and round; tea leaves are steeped in it. The filter is commonly integrated upstream of the teapot's short spout.
- The tasting cups. Generally, the height of the cup is low and its diameter is wide. Their number varies depending on the tea set chosen.
- The serving tray. It is used to present the whole set. For the Gong Fu Cha, a wooden tray, called a boat, is used.
- The aroma cup. This is a tall, narrow cup in which the aromas of the tea are discovered.
- The reserve pot. It holds the water used to rinse the teapot and cups.
- The tea tong. It is used to pick up the cups to empty them between infusions. Made of wood, it does not taint the tea.
- The tea paddle. Also made of wood, it is useful for scooping tea leaves in order to place them in the teapot.
Choose your Chinese tea set based on the accessories. For everyday use, a small Chinese set is sufficient. For a special occasion, or for a table with an Asian atmosphere, opt for a traditional vintage set.
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