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What Are Tea Pets and Why You Need One for Your Tea Ritual

Oct 17, 2024 Joyce D.

Tea rituals are all about mindfulness and connection. Whether you're sipping a delicate green tea or a robust black tea, the experience is often more than just drinking—it’s about taking a moment to relax, reflect, and appreciate the finer details of life. One such delightful detail in traditional Chinese tea culture is the tea pet.

But what exactly are tea pets, and why are they becoming increasingly popular among tea enthusiasts?

What is a Tea Pet?

A tea pet is a small, often intricately crafted figurine made from unglazed Yixing clay. These clay creatures are typically kept on a tea tray during Gong Fu tea ceremonies. As you pour tea, some of it is offered to the tea pet, a symbolic gesture that has become a beloved part of the tea ritual. These little companions are often shaped like animals, mythical creatures, or sometimes abstract forms, adding charm and personality to your tea setup.

History of Tea Pets

Tea pets have a long history rooted in Chinese tea culture, particularly among practitioners of the Gong Fu Cha tea ceremony. The tradition dates back to the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), when Yixing teapots first gained popularity. As tea drinkers used Yixing clay teapots, they also began using small clay figures to accompany their tea sessions.

Over time, tea pets became a way to personalize the tea experience, with each pet taking on a unique look as it gradually absorbed tea. In some cases, they’re even believed to bring luck or serve as a reflection of the tea drinker’s personality.

How to Use a Tea Pet

Using a tea pet is simple but adds a lot of charm to your tea ritual. Here’s how you can incorporate one into your tea sessions:

  1. Place it on your tea tray: Your tea pet should sit near your teapot or gaiwan, ready to receive its tea offering.

  2. Pour tea over it: During a Gong Fu tea session, the first steep is often used to rinse the tea leaves and warm the teapot. Instead of wasting this tea, pour it over your tea pet. As you continue to pour, your tea pet absorbs the tea and gradually develops a patina.

  3. Watch it change over time: As you pour tea on your tea pet regularly, it will change color and develop a smooth, shiny surface, making it uniquely yours.

Types of Tea Pets

Tea pets come in various shapes and designs. Here are some popular types you might encounter:

  • Animals: These are the most common tea pets, often shaped like turtles, frogs, pigs, and dragons. Each animal can have its own symbolic meaning—for instance, a dragon symbolizes power and protection.

  • Mythical Creatures: The Pixiu, a mythical winged lion, is often chosen as a tea pet for its association with wealth and good fortune.

  • Custom Designs: Some tea lovers opt for custom tea pets shaped like personal symbols or favorite animals, making them even more meaningful.

Why You Should Get a Tea Pet

  1. Enhance Your Tea Ritual: Tea pets add an interactive and joyful element to your tea sessions. Pouring tea over your tea pet becomes part of the meditative process of tea-making.

  2. Aesthetic Appeal: They add a traditional, artistic touch to your tea setup, elevating the visual experience.

  3. Mindful Companions: Watching your tea pet evolve over time can be incredibly satisfying. As it absorbs more tea, its appearance changes, becoming a reminder of the care and attention you bring to your tea practice.

  4. Cultural Connection: Incorporating a tea pet into your tea ritual brings you closer to the rich history and cultural significance of Chinese tea ceremonies.

How to Choose Your Tea Pet

When selecting a tea pet, consider the material (Yixing clay is ideal), its size, and a design that resonates with you. Because tea pets are made from unglazed clay, they will absorb the tea poured over them and develop a natural polish over time.

Final Thoughts

Tea pets are more than just cute figurines—they are a meaningful addition to your tea ritual, adding depth, mindfulness, and a connection to tradition. Whether you’re a seasoned tea lover or new to the world of Gong Fu tea ceremonies, a tea pet is a perfect companion to make each tea session more enjoyable.

Shop our tea pet collection now

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