DIA160xH140, China
Pewter was a popular material for the tea lovers in southern China around late Qing dynasty, at that time there were no electrical kettle but charcoal stove. To keep the distinct aroma of tea, the teapot is only put on to the stove until the charcoal is red hot. The material of the teapot is also very selective, while iron and bronze could affect the subtle taste of the tea leave, pewter was seen as a better material.
D180xH180mm, China
It used to be as popular as the electrical kettle, every big family would have one in the house. The teapot with tea already brewed would be kept warm in this rattan weaved basket. Inside the basket is padded with cloth with only a custom made void for the teapot. The tea cozy was invented in the Qing dynasty, some are weaved with rattan, some of reed and some straw. The ratten is first cleaned and the knots untied, the skin is removed and the core polished. The cozy is decorated with bronze accessory which unfortunately most are no longer on this piece.
Mountain Folkcraft 