An intriguing chahai \u2014 a tea pitcher \u2014 hand\u2011thrown on the wheel by Krak\u00f3w\u2011based ceramic artist Marysia Graff.<\/p>\n
A chahai\u2014literally 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 a beautiful, misty white color. In a few spots, the thick, icing\u2011like glaze reveals the natural clay beneath \u2014 a pleasant beige. The light glaze makes it easy to clearly see and appreciate the color of the tea liquor. <\/p>\n
The vessel\u2019s unusual form immediately draws the eye \u2014 it\u2019s the classic Chinese hulu shape, reminiscent of a pear or a snowman, traditionally believed to bring good fortune. I\u2019m a huge fan of the indentation at the center; it makes the chahai exceptionally comfortable to hold, fitting perfectly in the hand. It has a satisfying weight, and the thicker walls add to its durability. <\/p>\n
Capacity: 200 ml. The chahai can also easily serve as a larger cup, as its spout is short and unobtrusive. It pours with a steady, confident stream. <\/p>\n
It\u2019s dishwasher safe and won\u2019t affect the flavor of your tea.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
A handcrafted chahai\u2014the \u201csea of tea\u201d\u2014a traditional vessel used in Eastern-style tea brewing rituals. 200 ml.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":10036,"template":"","meta":{"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0},"product_brand":[],"product_cat":[216],"product_tag":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-8958","1":"product","2":"type-product","3":"status-publish","4":"has-post-thumbnail","6":"product_cat-artisan-teaware","8":"first","9":"outofstock","10":"taxable","11":"shipping-taxable","12":"purchasable","13":"product-type-simple"},"yoast_head":"\n