GONGDAOBEI / CHAHAI #2 – ARTUR REJ

Description

A tiny chahai—a traditional tea pitcher—hand-thrown on the wheel by Polish artist Artur Rej.

A chahai—literally the “sea of tea”—is also known as a gongdaobei, or “fairness cup.” The latter name highlights the purpose of this traditional vessel. In the practice of Eastern-style tea brewing, tea is poured quickly from the pot or gaiwan. If it were served straight into cups, the first person would receive a weaker brew, and the last, a much stronger one. Pouring the tea into the “fairness cup” first ensures that everyone enjoys the exact same infusion. It also allows tea drinkers to admire the color of the tea and to let the water cool slightly before steeping the next leaves.

This chahai is crafted from beautifully coarse clay in a stony, weathered black tone. Inside, it’s glazed in white, revealing subtle glimpses of the natural clay beneath. The base is speckled with bronze crystals, reminiscent of unmelting raw cane sugar. The light-colored glaze provides a clear backdrop to admire the rich hues of the tea infusion.

Capacity: 90 ml—just right for serving three people. This chahai can also double beautifully as a larger cup. Its spout is small and subtle, yet it pours in a solid, steady stream.

It’s dishwasher safe and won’t affect the flavor of your tea.

Artur Rej crafts artistic teaware in his studio nestled in the Bóbr Valley Landscape Park, where he also runs pottery workshops. His ceramic style is truly distinctive—his pieces are known for their cheerful, rich colors and soft, rounded forms that invite touch as much as admiration.

Explore more of his work on Instagram: @rej.artur.ceramika