Bamboo Teapot

Tea drinking has been an integral part of Chinese culture for centuries, resulting in a wide range of social customs and material traditions. In addition to tea leaves, water, and heat, the art of drinking tea (chayi) calls for a variety of teaware and utensils - both practical and decorative.

This rustic teapot dates to the late Qing dynasty and is crafted from a hollow length of bamboo. The handle and spout are formed of bent bamboo and a simply carved lid tops the cylindrical body. Appealing to the popular appreciation for organic forms, the body of the teapot was minimally worked, preserving the natural growth patterns of the wood.