A chahai, a tea pitcher, handmade on the wheel by the Polish artist Artur Rej.<\/p>\n
A chahai, literally the \u201csea of tea\u201d\u2014is also known as a gongdaobei, or \u201cfairness cup.\u201d 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 \u201cfairness cup\u201d 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. <\/p>\n
This chahai has darker, more rugged tones than Artur\u2019s usual light pastels. The exterior walls are pleasantly coarse to the touch, shifting into fascinating shades of natural browns and muted blue\u2011greys. The piece is enriched with a generous amount of chamotte \u2014 tiny clay particles that further emphasize its raw character. <\/p>\n
Its capacity is 160 ml, enough to serve several people or even combine two infusions from a smaller vessel. It pours in a steady, confident stream. <\/p>\n
It\u2019s dishwasher safe and won\u2019t affect the flavor of your tea.<\/p>\n
Artur Rej crafts artistic teaware in his studio nestled in the B\u00f3br Valley Landscape Park, where he also runs pottery workshops. His ceramic style is truly distinctive\u2014his pieces are known for their cheerful, rich colors and soft, rounded forms that invite touch as much as admiration. <\/p>\n