This Tea Plate/ Gongfu Tea Tray is a nod to the rich heritage of Chinese calligraphy, specifically the 'Lantingji Xu' (蘭亭集序) – the 'Preface to the Poems Collected from the Orchid Pavilion' (also known as 'Lanting Xu' – "Orchid Pavilion Preface"). This plate is not just a mere vessel for holding a teapot or cups. It's a conversation starter, a piece of history brought into the modern tea ceremony.
The ceramic plate shows a snippet of Wang Xizhi's famous work, revered for its flowing script and historical significance. The blue and white color scheme is a classic in Chinese pottery, suggesting a minimalist aesthetic that doesn't vie for attention but rather complements the tea-brewing experience.
Crafted to be sturdy yet with a finesse that speaks to its cultural background, the plate does more than hold your tea accessories; it serves as a bridge to the past. For tea enthusiasts, it's a subtle yet poignant reminder of the contemplative nature of tea, reflecting the philosophical undertones of Wang Xizhi's prose on the fleeting beauty of gatherings and the nature of existence.
The practicality of this plate comes into play when you're engaging in the Gong Fu Cha ritual. The plate ensures that any excess water or spills are caught, keeping your tea space – Cha Xi (茶席), clean and dry. It is sized to accommodate a teapot or a few Gong Fu Cha teacups, making it versatile for personal use or when enjoying tea with friends.
As you perform the Gong Fu Cha, each pour and each steep is framed by this plate, enhancing the sensory experience with a visual and historical context. It's not just about the taste of the tea, but also about the environment you create and the respect for the cultural practices that have shaped the tea-drinking experience throughout the centuries.
Overall, this tea plate is a functional piece of art, enriching your tea rituals with its simplicity, functionality, and the timeless beauty of Lantingji Xu's calligraphy. It invites a moment of reflection with every use, a pause to appreciate the melding of tradition and the present, art and utility, all coming together in the quiet joy of a tea ceremony.
• Material: Ceramic
• Dimensions: Diameter: 6in/15cm; Depth: 1.2in/3cm
Additional teaware on the photos is not included.