Orchid Porcelain Gaiwan

A white porcelain gaiwan decorated with a loose orchid pattern and a fine warm-toned rim. Its 150 ml size gives tea leaves room to open while keeping each infusion compact and easy to control. A gentle, practical piece for brewing tea through several short infusions.

€32.00
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About

A gaiwan is a traditional Chinese brewing vessel formed from a bowl, a lid and a saucer. Tea leaves open directly inside the bowl, while the lid guides the pour and keeps the leaves back. Between infusions, it can be lifted to reveal the aroma held inside.

This gaiwan brings a softer, more decorative character to that familiar form. Fine blue-grey leaves and small orchid flowers move lightly across the ivory-white porcelain. A narrow warm-toned line follows the rim of the bowl, lid and saucer, framing the pattern without making the piece feel formal.

The orchid has appeared in Chinese painting for centuries and is traditionally counted among the Four Gentlemen, together with plum blossom, bamboo and chrysanthemum. Artists valued its slender leaves and restrained flowers. Here, the motif gives the vessel a sense of movement while leaving plenty of open porcelain around it.

Porcelain is a practical material for tasting different teas. Its smooth glazed surface does not readily absorb aroma, and the pale interior makes the colour of the infusion easy to see. At 150 ml, the gaiwan offers enough room for larger leaves to unfold while keeping the individual pours small enough to follow the tea from one infusion to the next.

Details

Maker | China
Dimensions | Capacity: 150 ml
Materials | Porcelain
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Use & Care

How to Use

Warm the gaiwan with hot water, then empty it. Add loose tea leaves and pour in water at the temperature recommended for your tea.

Place the lid slightly off-centre to create a narrow opening. Hold the bowl by its rim, secure the lid with one finger and pour the entire infusion into a cup or fairness pitcher. Return to the same leaves for several short infusions, adjusting the time as the flavour develops.

How to Care

Rinse shortly after use and wash gently with mild dish soap and a soft sponge.

The supplier lists the gaiwan as dishwasher safe, though hand washing is recommended to protect the painted decoration and coloured rim. Avoid abrasive cleaners, direct heat and sudden temperature changes. Microwave suitability has not been confirmed. Allow all three pieces to dry completely before storing.