Yixing Clay Four Gentlemen Flowers Tea Cup
Best choice for traditional tea ceremony enthusiasts and collectors.
Experience the artistry of traditional tea ware with the Yixing Clay Four Gentlemen Flowers Tea Cup. Crafted from authentic Yixing clay, this cup features the elegant 'Four Gentlemen Flowers' motif, a classic symbol of refinement. Originating from China Yixing and dating from the New Period, it's presented in good condition, ready to enhance your tea rituals. Its compact size, with a top diameter of 5.8 cm and a height of 4.5 cm, is perfect for traditional tea ceremonies, holding a capacity of 65 ml (2.2 oz).
$16.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
1327
/ 3191
#1327 in Coffee & Tea Cups
Price vs Category Average
-67%
Below average
Material
Ceramic (Yixing Clay)
/ Ceramic (Yixing Clay)
Who it's for
- Slow drinkers who prefer tea at a consistent temperature
- Tea connoisseurs seeking deeper flavor profiles over time
- Collectors who appreciate traditional Chinese artistic craftsmanship
Who should skip it
- Adventurous drinkers who enjoy switching between many different tea varieties
- Casual drinkers who prefer low-maintenance, easy-to-clean teaware
- Clumsy users worried about damaging a fragile, expensive investment
Performance breakdown
Material Authenticity
Genuine Yixing clay provides the porous texture essential for tea seasoning.
Ceremonial Suitability
Compact dimensions perfectly match the requirements for traditional gongfu tea service.
Aesthetic Craftsmanship
The Four Gentlemen motif offers a sophisticated touch for tea enthusiasts.
Heat Retention
Thick clay walls maintain temperature well despite lacking modern insulation technology.
Maintenance Ease
Requires careful hand washing to preserve the clay's delicate seasoning properties.
Ergonomic Handling
The handleless design demands a steady grip during hot tea service.
Key Specs
Material
Ceramic (Yixing Clay)
Capacity
65 ml (2.2 oz)
Top Diameter
5.8 cm
Height
4.5 cm
Origin Marks
China Yixing
Period
New
Color Available
Reddish brown
Cup Type
Teacup
Features
- Authentic Yixing Clay material
- Elegant Four Gentlemen Flowers design
- Ideal for traditional tea service
- Compact, traditional teacup size
- Collectible quality from New Period
- Durable ceramic construction
What customers say
Customer sentiment strongly favors the Yixing Clay Four Gentlemen Tea Cup, focusing on its exceptional quality and aesthetic design. Users consistently praise the authentic zisha clay, noting its satisfying weight and smooth finish, which enthusiasts believe enhances Oolong and Pu-erh flavors over time. The delicate craftsmanship of the traditional Four Gentlemen motif elevates the cup to functional art. While its small capacity and premium price point sometimes surprise newer users, the consensus among dedicated connoisseurs is clear: this cup delivers a superior, authentic Gongfu tea experience rooted in material quality and tradition. It is viewed as a cherished, essential piece for serious tea practice.
Know before you buy
Yixing clay is porous and known for its ability to absorb the oils and flavors of the tea brewed in it over time. This process, often called 'seasoning,' can enhance the flavor profile of your tea with repeated use.
You should rinse the cup with hot water only. Avoid using soap or detergents, as the porous clay will absorb the chemicals and affect the taste of your future brews.
While it is a collectible piece, it is fully functional and designed for traditional tea rituals. Its durable ceramic construction makes it well-suited for regular use, provided you handle it with care.
Yixing clay has excellent heat retention, but it does not conduct heat as quickly as glass or porcelain. When filled with tea at a standard drinking temperature, the cup will be warm to the touch but generally comfortable to hold.
The Four Gentlemen—plum blossom, orchid, bamboo, and chrysanthemum—are traditional symbols in Chinese culture representing the four seasons and the virtues of a noble person. This motif is a classic choice for tea ware, reflecting refinement and artistic heritage.
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$17