Tea Pet/Mini Tea Pot/ Yi Xing Clay Teapot
A tea pot teapet from a variety of style choices.
A variety of different colors.
Clay ceramic
An interesting historical fact about Chinese teapets is that they were originally created for a functional and superstitious purpose during the Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD). Teapets, also known as "Yixing zisha teapets," are small clay figurines used as tea companions during Gongfu tea ceremonies. These charming and decorative teapets were traditionally made from Yixing clay, known for its porous nature and ability to absorb and retain the flavors and aromas of the teas brewed in their vicinity.
Beyond their decorative appeal, teapets were believed to possess a mystical quality. It was thought that the teapets could predict the quality of the tea by changing their appearance based on the type and quality of tea used. The teapet's color, texture, or even the appearance of tiny tea stains were believed to give insights into the tea's flavor and strength.
Tea aficionados would observe and interact with their teapets during tea ceremonies, treating them as cherished companions that enhanced their tea-drinking experience. This unique tradition of using teapets as fortune-tellers and tea companions added an element of whimsy and intrigue to the ancient Chinese tea culture, reflecting the deep connection between art, superstition, and the appreciation of tea.