What is the purpose of tea pets?
A tea pet is a small figurine used in tea ceremonies. They are an important part of Chinese tea culture and are believed to bring good luck and prosperity. They are often placed on tea trays, creating a peaceful and relaxing environment with their presence.
Some tea pets can be used to measure the number of tea leaves needed for brewing. If your tea pet has a hollow space in its body, you can fill it with a specific amount of tea leaves, then pour them into your teapot or Gaiwan. Alternatively, if the tea pet has a flat surface, you can use it to level off the tea leaves and ensure that you're using the correct amount.
What is the History of Tea Pets?
The origins of tea pets can be traced back to the Ming Dynasty(1368 to 1644 A.D.), where small figures of animals, such as dragons and tigers, were used as teapot decorations. These figures were believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune to the tea ceremony. Over time, these figures evolved into the tea pets we know today.
What are the different types of tea pets?
There are many different types of tea pets, such as clay tea pets, ceramic tea pets, glass tea pets, and stone tea pets. Clay tea pets are the most common type, they are usually made of "zisha", also known as Yixing clay. Porcelain tea pets are delicate and feature intricate designs. Stone tea pets can be made from materials such as jade, agate, and quartz.
How do I choose a Tea Pet?
Each tea pet has its unique characteristic. Some tea pets are even designed to spit water or change colors when hot water is poured over them. You should take into account size, material, shape, and the meaning behind the design. However, what’s important is to choose one that you love. A tea pet doesn’t even have to be an animal. A lot of modern tea pets have fun and pretty shapes such as apples, watermelons, and magnolias.
How do I take care of tea pets?
So now that you have a tea pet, you want to make sure it’s happy and healthy. Here are some tips to follow:
- Avoid using leftover tea to care for your tea pet.
- Pour freshly brewed tea over your pet then brush it with a fine brush or wipe it down with a tea towel to maintain its beauty and fragrance.
- Only use one type of tea to maintain the purity of its colour.
- Red tea, Da Hong Pao rock tea, and Pu-erh tea give faster results, while green tea may take longer.
If you follow these tips, over time your tea pet will become smooth and fragrant. Now that you know how to properly care for your tea pet, go wild and have fun with Gohobi’s tea pets!
Conclusion
So, why not bring a little piece of tea culture into your home with a Gohobi tea pet? Whether you choose a clay tea pet, a ceramic tea pet, or a stone tea pet, there is sure to be one that fits your needs. They're not just a beautiful decoration but a meaningful symbol of the rich history and tradition of Chinese tea culture. By caring for your tea pets properly, you can ensure that they will continue to bring luck and prosperity to your tea-drinking routine for years to come.
If you want to learn more about tea pets, here are some fun articles and videos:
Gohobi Tea Pet Collection: https://gohobi-global.myshopify.com/collections/ornaments-tea-pet
