Jianshui Pottery Black Gaiwan (~130 ml)

This Black Gaiwan made from Jianshui clay is sleek and hard-working. The thick walls and excellent heat retention make it perfect for puerh, heicha, black tea, and any teas that really want sustained high temperatures. It holds about 130ml and measures approximately 10cm wide, 6cm tall without the lid, and 8cm tall with the lid on. These are handmade gaiwans, so each piece is slightly different from one another. 

Jianshui is one of the four famous types of Chinese pottery and is only produced in Jianshui County in Yunnan province. Jianshui pottery has a history of at least 900 years and is listed as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of China. The clay is iron rich, denser, and less porous than vessels made from Yixing clay. 

A gaiwan gives you very precise control over your brewing - you can use the lid to manage heat, and pour out every last drop in seconds to stop the steeping exactly when you want. The unglazed Jianshui clay adds something special to this experience. While glazed gaiwans stay neutral, this semi-porous clay interacts gently with your tea, smoothing out harsh edges while letting the tea's character shine through multiple steepings. 

Each gaiwan comes in its own sturdy gift box.