BUY UNIQUE HANDMADE CHINESE GAIWAN TEA SETS AT GAICUP®

Understanding the Gaiwan

The Gaiwan, or "covered bowl," is a beloved tea vessel with a history stretching back to the Ming dynasty. Comprising a bowl, lid, and saucer, it's crafted to perfect the infusion of loose leaf teas, providing precision and grace in every brew.

There are two important production sites of handmade gaiwan tea infuser in China. Yixing, Jiangsu is one of the world's famous production sites of purple clay teapots and covered bowls, while black clay from Jianshui, Yunnan is also a very rare raw material for gaiwan production.

Craftsmanship and Varieties

Crafted originally from fine porcelain for its beauty and heat retention qualities, today's versions also include glass and clay. Each material offers unique benefits, from watching the steeping process in glass to enhancing flavor complexities with clay, reflecting the artisan's skill and the rich heritage of tea culture.

Brewing Technique

To use this traditional Gaiwan tea set correctly, first heat it with boiling water to maintain the temperature. Add loose tea leaves, pour in hot water, and cover with a lid. The lid helps regulate the strength of the tea, allowing you to control the amount of tea you pour and keep the tea leaves inside when you pour out the brewed tea.

Comparison: Gaiwan vs Teapot

While teapots are often used for convenience during gatherings, a Gaiwan provides a more hands-on brewing experience that tea purists cherish for its ability to extract the maximum flavor from tea leaves. The choice between a Gaiwan and a teapot often depends on the occasion and the drinker's preference.

The Gaiwan in Cultural Traditions

More than just a vessel for brewing tea, the Gaiwan holds a significant place in cultural traditions. It is central to Gongfu tea ceremonies, which are not only about tasting tea but also about appreciating the tranquility and mindfulness that the process brings. These ceremonies often involve poetry and music, enhancing the meditative experience of tea drinking.

Explore Our Curated Collection

At GAICUP, we are proud to offer a selection of beautifully crafted vessels, each telling its own story of art and tradition. Whether you are a novice eager to explore the art of tea or a connoisseur looking to deepen your practice, you'll find the perfect piece to start your journey.