MATERIAL

Porcelain

DIMENSIONS (L x W x H) CM

10.5 x 10.5 x 1

DETAILS

An old silent pond...

A frog jumps into the pond,

Splash! Silence again.

- Matsuo Basho

Tea Pets are inspired by little pond creatures and an ode to appreciating the little things in life.

In ancient chinese tradition, tea lovers would keep small clay figures, sometimes called tea pets or 茶宠, in the shape of animals or mythical creatures on their tea trays as a symbol of good luck, fortune and happiness.

Leftover tea would be poured over these creatures and the unglazed, monochromatic surface would absorb the aroma and color, nurturing the creature to become glossier and fragrant over time.

The appreciation of tea, and life in general, becomes not simply a process to quench thirst, but also for the pleasure of the process.

Tea Pets are reimagined for today in the form of little dishes shaped like little pond creatures – a frog, a turtle and a snail, that carry your favourite tea cups, snacks or even coins and miscellany. Arranging them together on your desk or tray, adds to your pleasure in the process of enjoying your tea time.

Designed by SCENE SHANG and made by Middle Kingdom in an imperial caliber kiln in Jingdezhen, each of these coloured clay dishes are hand finished and signed at the base.