Stoneware・Wood-fired

This unique tea bowl by Taiwanese artist Zhang Yun Cheng is entirely unglazed. The glassy, running drips of green and black that cover the pot's surface are the result of blasts of wood ash hitting the pot and vitrifying during the firing. In the wood kiln, an unglazed pot such as this tells a story of the kilns construction, the airflow, and the directions of the carefully tended wood fire. The side of the pot opposite the firebox is muted in contrast, displaying the natural patina of this smooth stoneware clay body.

Usage and care: Hand-wash only, mild detergent is ok.

Approximate dimensions: 73mm tall, 100mm diameter, 350ml・Artist: 張允澄

About Tea Bowls

In Japan, tea bowls are traditionally used to drink whisked powdered tea (matcha). In Taiwan, they are often used to drink loose leaf tea. We've adopted this latter approach. It's quite simple - and works wonders on most of our teas.

Simply warm a tea bowl, add tea leaves, and add water. We suggest using 1 to 2 grams less tea than our normal recommended dosage and filling the bowl 2/3 of the way to the top. Adding a slow steady stream of the water over the leaves also helps the leaves settle to the bottom. Steep until leaves have just opened. Sip, and add more water if necessary. Drinking tea from a bowl is both casual, and elegant. It's also a very personal and comforting experience.