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Enjoying and Caring for Your Yixing
Teapot
In very ancient times the
Chinese prepared
their tea in bowls, but over time established the art and tradition of the
teapot. Yixing teapots have
perhaps been the most notable of Chinese teapots because they are so practical
and artistic.
While some contemporary
collectors of Yixing
teapots might be interested in displaying their craftsmanship as part of a
décor, many appreciate Yixing for the practical purpose of preparing, serving,
and drinking tea. The Chinese have over the centuries perfected ways of making
new teapots most
suitable for brewing tea.
Cleaning your new Yixing teapot of any residue is the first step. Place your
teapot in a container that you can heat on your stove. The container should hold
cold water. Once the teapot is on the stove, bring the water to a boil very
slowly. Then add some tea leaves, preferably a
strong tea. Then bring the
water in the container back to a boil, reduce the heat, and let the water
simmer. You can allow the water to simmer for five minutes; however, if you want
your teapot to
deepen in color you
can leave it in the water for a longer period. Keep watch, though, so that the
teapot achieves the color you want. Of course, you can also make a point of
collecting Yixing teapots in a variety
of colors, including tan,
orange-red,
red, blue, and
green. After
preparing your teapot for
use according to this procedure, let it dry naturally out of the light and in a
dry environment.
Yixing teapots will absorb
the flavors of the tea you prepare. Consequently, serious tea-drinkers will
designate one pot for one particular tea. Although drinking tea can be a
soothing, peaceful, and solitary experience, we know that tea drinking can also
be a social occasion. The crafters of Yixing, who are true artists, also produce
teacups. You can collect
as many as you need to share your experience of drinking tea. The cups come in
various shapes to complement the designs of the teapots. If you are interested
in making a real statement, consider serving tea on a
special tea tray. These
are constructed of a variety of rich and
luxurious woods. And when
you are finished with your tea, you can always display your
tea tray, teapot, and
cups.
If you would like to participate in the centuries-old tradition of drinking tea
Chinese style, exploring Yixing and preparing your teapot appropriately are the
first steps. Enjoy!
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