Tea Moments With Kevin

Hand-built ceramics, also known as hand-built pottery, and wheel-thrown ceramics are two distinct techniques in the world of pottery. Hand-built ceramics involve shaping clay by hand, allowing for greater artistic expression and unique forms. On the other hand, wheel-thrown ceramics utilize a pottery wheel, resulting in precise symmetry and smooth finishes. Photo by Rong Hand-built ceramics are characterized by their **organic and irregular shapes**. Artists can mold the clay using various techniques like pinch, coil, and slab construction. This approach allows for a more tactile and intuitive connection with the clay, resulting in pieces with a distinct, artisanal quality. Each hand-built ceramic object carries the imprint of the artist's hands, showcasing their individual style and creativity. In contrast, wheel-thrown ceramics are known for their **uniformity and precision**. Using a pottery wheel, artists shape the clay while it spins, creating symmetrical vessels with even wal...

 When it comes to Fine China porcelain, personally, I can't help but recommend Chinese Dehua white porcelain as the epitome of excellence. I had the privilege of experiencing its beauty firsthand during my visit to a renowned ceramic studio in Dehua, China. The craftsmanship and attention to detail left me in awe. The delicate brushwork, the smooth white glaze, and the intricate forms were a testament to the dedication and skill of the artisans. As I held a Dehua white porcelain piece in my hands, I felt a sense of reverence for its rich heritage and cultural significance. Each piece seemed to carry a story, a connection to the centuries-old tradition of Chinese ceramic art. Whether it was a teapot, a vase, or a figurine, the elegance and sophistication were undeniable. The ethereal beauty of Dehua white porcelain lies not only in its visual appeal but also in its tactile experience. The porcelain's smooth texture and the weight in my hands added to the overall sensory pleasure...

Dragon Boat Festival, also known as Duanwu Festival, is a traditional Chinese holiday celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth month in the lunar calendar, every year. One of the most significant traditions of this festival is the consumption of zongzi, a delicious food made from glutinous rice filled with various ingredients such as pork, peanuts, and mushrooms. It can be either savory or sweet, representing both a culinary delight and a symbolic ritual. Tea, being an integral part of Chinese culture, also plays a significant role during the Dragon Boat Festival. With a rich history and deep cultural significance, tea adds a sense of harmony and tradition to the festivities. People often enjoy a cup of fragrant tea, enhancing the overall experience of the festival. The pairing of tea and zongzi is a traditional and enjoyable practice during this festival. Different types of tea complement the flavors of zongzi. For instance, green tea pairs well with savory meat-filled zongzi, while f...

In the world of Dehua White Porcelain, a fascinating story unfolds between the art of carving and the realm of tea. For centuries, skilled artisans have merged their exceptional carving techniques with the creation of exquisite tea utensils. Every delicate stroke and intricate detail carved onto the surface of Dehua White Porcelain tells a tale of dedication and mastery. The artisans pour their passion and creativity into sculpting tea pots, cups, and other vessels, transforming them into captivating works of art. As the story unfolds, the marriage of carving and tea emerges. Tea enthusiasts around the world embrace the elegance and charm of Dehua White Porcelain tea sets. The smooth touch of the porcelain, embellished with meticulously carved patterns and motifs, elevates the tea-drinking experience to new heights. These intricately carved tea utensils not only serve a practical purpose but also evoke a sense of beauty and tranquility. Each piece embodies the rich cultural heritage of...

  Chinese white porcelain is one of the treasures of Chinese ceramic art, renowned worldwide for its unique texture and elegant appearance. Among them, Blanc de Chine, as a special type of Chinese white porcelain, has gained widespread attention. Blanc de Chine is known for its exquisite carving and pure white color. It is made from kaolin clay as the main material and crafted with meticulous skill and high-temperature firing. In comparison to traditional white porcelain, Blanc de Chine is purer and more translucent, without any glaze. Its delicate and soft luster creates a unique texture, evoking a sense of warmth and elegance. Artwork of Quansheng Lan, Ceramics Master of China Blanc de Chine originated in Dehua County in the 17th century and later in Jingdezhen in the 18th century. Dehua County is one of the major production areas of Chinese white porcelain, where ceramic artists have created many famous Blanc de Chine works through their exquisite carving techniques and firing p...