Classic Japanese Teapots

Having had the opportunity to live and work in Japan for 3 years, I simply fell in love with the country, the culture, and its people, who are much easier to understand and respect once you get a grasp on the Japanese language basics. I just loved the simplicity of Japanese décor, and when I returned home I made sure I bought my collection of traditional Japanese teapots. I've always had a love for these pots, and when I got the chance to choose tea sets from the country or origin, I just couldn't resist and bought back a real fine collection.

This was such an opportunity as I had a beautiful Japanese teapot passed down from my great grandmother which sadly got lost or broken at some point. Anyway, whatever happened to it was a mystery, but a great loss from a sentimental view point nonetheless. It was considered to be a classic Japanese teapot as it was made from sturdy iron and had enamel coating on the interior to prevent rusting. I know it was only a 'thing' but it released so many happy memories just by looking at it.

Many from my recent collection are fitted with a removable, stainless steel mesh infusing basket, for easy brewing of loose tea. But apart from the practical uses, a Japanese tea pot is also recommended for aesthetic purposes, as they truly are a work of art and will be the talking point of many a display cabinet. In fact, my prize Japanese tea set is reminiscent of designs from the famous Tokoname city in Japan, renowned for their famous clay pottery. It truly is a beautiful collection.

If you're stuck for a gift for someone, a Japanese teapot is the perfect choice. Take a look at some of the hand-cast teapots which are exclusive designs of Joyce Chen, and you'll see what I mean. No one could be disappointed with such a gift, surely! Oriental, ornamental, and quite unique! The history surrounding Joyce Chen and her family is pretty interesting too if you're into that kind of thing.

The Japanese tea drinking ceremony is also very interesting and taken very seriously by the nationals. The Geisha woman of Japan actually study for years on the proper serving ritual. Every movement has a symbolic meaning. The movement of the arms and shoulders as the tea is poured is carried out with great precision. When I was in Japan I got to see Geisha women showing the proper way to serve tea. They looked as if they were gliding, almost dancing. It was so graceful, so beautiful.

My understanding is that a fiancé is to serve her proposed in-laws tea in the symbolic style, although these traditions seemed to have faded away somewhat over the years. That said, the Geisha continue the practice and carry on age old traditions in the art of serving and drinking tea, and it makes for a fascinating subject.

If you're looking for something a little different to adorn your home, take a look at the fine collections of Japanese tea pots around, but be warned, shopping for Japanese teapots is not so easy as you'll need to practice great restraint. Honestly, collecting these sets can become a bit addictive once you get to appreciate their true beauty.