Pottery Tray

Coarse-fired pottery tea ware: Savoring the ritual of life, starting with a fine cup of tea.

The use of coarse-fired pottery for tea ware is not merely about achieving a vintage aesthetic; it is a practical choice rooted in the material's physical properties. Fired at relatively low temperatures (usually around 1100°C), the material is more porous than porcelain or Yixing clay. It possesses moderate moisture absorption and breathability, naturally regulating the humidity of the immediate surface environment and preventing water pooling that could warp wood grain or corrode metal fittings. Its surface is slightly textured rather than slippery, providing natural grip for the base of teapots and saucers; furthermore, its stable thermal expansion coefficient makes it resistant to cracking from sudden temperature changes. These characteristics make it an ideal vessel for the "dry brewing" style—characterized by minimal water usage, rapid drainage, and an emphasis on the tactile presence of the ware—serving simultaneously as a support, a drainage channel, and an object that develops character over time.

This coarse-fired pottery tea tray does not dazzle with bright, flashy colors. Yet, each time you brew tea, the sensation of your fingertips brushing against its warm, matte surface—accompanied by the soft sound of water flowing along the inner curve into the reservoir—instills a sense of calm. The tray features a thickened body that sits firmly on the table; whether holding a waste-water bowl, a side-handle teapot, or small cups, the setup remains rock-steady. The slightly upturned edges ensure clean drainage, preventing spills onto the table surface, while the raised base allows for airflow, keeping the pottery from retaining dampness. After three months of use, the clay takes on a warm, mellow brown hue, as if gently kissed by time. Crafted by "Oude Chashi," this piece eschews industrial uniformity; every glaze mark and texture bears the living breath of the potter's wheel—a silent yet substantial presence at the tea table.