Chinese Tea Ware 101: Cup, Gaiwan, or Teapot?
zzwChoosing tea ware becomes easier when each form is connected to a moment of use.
The cup
A cup is the simplest entry point. It can be used alone, paired with a saucer, or added to an existing tea setup.
The gaiwan
A gaiwan combines a bowl, lid, and saucer. It gives the drinker control over steeping and pouring, and it makes the leaves visible.
The teapot
A teapot is useful when you want to prepare and pour for more than one person or keep one tea style as part of a regular routine.
Start with the form you will actually use
The right choice is rarely the most elaborate one. Begin with capacity, hand comfort, cleaning, and the amount of tea you normally make.
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