Stoneware・5-Day Wood-fired

Of the twelve animals that make up the Chinese zodiac, the tiger is perhaps the best representation of yin and yang. Contrasting stripes, fearsome fangs and soft, furry bellies, in all of her characteristics, opposite forces are at play, demanding balance and poise.

To commemorate the Year of the Tiger, potter Liao Guo Hua has fashioned us a small series of tea bowls that pay tribute the nature of the tiger. Using two contrasting clay bodies in light and dark stoneware, the artist guides the striations on his potters wheel, finding balance between upward pulls to the walls of vessel and gentle pressure to ease the bowl outwards, giving the profile of the pot an undulating curve. Each bowl is fired for five days in a multi-chambered wood kiln in the hills of Nantou, Taiwan, during which the crucible of ash and flame leave their own marks upon the form. An opalescent sheen reflects passing light, like the gleam of an eye hidden deep in the foliage.

This series is limited to 8 pots, an auspicious number in Chinese culture for its homonym, prosperity. Each bowl is signed by the artist.

About Tea Bowls

In Taiwan, tea bowls are often used to drink loose leaf tea. It's quite simple and works wonders on most of our teas.

Simply warm a tea bowl, add tea leaves, and add water. We suggest using 1 to 2 grams less tea than our normal recommended dosage. Fill the bowl 2/3 of the way to the top. Pour a steady stream of water over the leaves to help them settle to the bottom. Steep until leaves have just opened. Sip, and add more water if necessary.

Usage and care: Hand-wash only, without soap or detergent.

Approximate dimensions: 75mm tall, 95mm diameter, 250ml・Artist: 廖國華