What is a Tea Pet and Its Craftsmanship and Materials

Tea pets are small objects that Chinese people play with while enjoying tea, typically placed on the tea tray for decorative purposes. They are usually crafted from Yixing clay or Chengni pottery. The designs vary widely, including small elephants, turtles, toads, Pixiu (a mythical creature), and little pigs, often featuring the twelve zodiac signs from traditional Chinese culture.Some specific designs carry special meanings. For example, the Jin Chan (Golden Toad) is a homophone for "wealth" in Chinese, and it often carries coins on its back, symbolizing money flowing into the home. If the Jin Chan has coins in its mouth that can be rotated, it represents making money. If there are no coins in its mouth, it symbolizes attracting wealth. In summary, tea pets serve as decorative items placed on the tea tray.Tea pets are not only decorative items but also serve a unique purpose during tea brewing. Tea enthusiasts often pour leftover tea or the first infusion over them, gradually developing a beautiful sheen on the surface over time. This process enhances the tea pet’s texture and charm, making it more visually appealing. Some tea pets made from special materials can even change color with the temperature of the tea, adding to their playful nature.

Materials and Craftsmanship of Tea Pets
Tea pets are primarily made from Yixing clay, ceramics, and stone materials. Yixing clay is one of the most common materials because of its excellent breathability and absorbency. With long-term "nurturing," Yixing clay tea pets develop a more refined, smooth surface. Ceramic tea pets are often glazed, offering a vibrant array of colors and diverse shapes, providing a more visually striking effect. Stone tea pets are typically crafted from natural materials like jade or agate, featuring a unique texture that appeals to tea lovers who appreciate natural aesthetics.
The production of tea pets usually involves hand-carving or mold forming. Handcrafted tea pets exhibit more vivid details, as artisans sculpt them layer by layer, giving each piece a unique personality. Mold-formed tea pets are suitable for mass production, maintaining a high level of aesthetic value, though they may lack the intricate details of handcrafted ite

How to Use a Tea Pet?
Using a tea pet is straightforward and enjoyable. Simply place it on the tea tray, ideally next to the teapot or gaiwan for easy access when pouring. During tea brewing, you can pour any leftover tea or the first infusion onto the tea pet, allowing a layer of tea oil to gradually form on its surface. Over time, this process will make the tea pet look more polished and vibrant. In summary, just place the tea pet on the edge of the tea tray and use the tea wash to enhance its color and appearance.By incorporating tea pets into your tea-drinking experience, you not only enjoy a delightful accessory but also engage in a unique tradition that enriches your overall tea culture.

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If you have questions about selecting tea:
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If you have questions about brewing tea:
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