Stoneware Master Tasting Cup for Gongfu Tea - 85ml
Stoneware Master Tasting Cup for Gongfu Tea - 85ml
The ClayZenith Stoneware Master Tasting Cup (85ml) is a dedicated personal chalice designed to ground your Gongfu tea rituals. Known in traditional Chinese tea practice as the Zhuren Bei (Master Host Cup), this heavy-bottomed vessel features a textured volcanic ash reduction glaze that offers substantial hand presence, organic tactile warmth, and exceptional thermal stability.
Material Composition & Mineral Ash Chemistry
Hand-thrown from dense, iron-rich mountain stoneware clay, the cup is coated with a natural wood-and-mineral ash glaze. Fired at 1,280°C (2,336°F) in a reduction atmosphere, the mineral ash melts into organic crystalline pools with warm amber and earthy undertones. The thickened ceramic wall retains heat efficiently, keeping your tea liquor at optimal drinking temperature (55°C–65°C) for extended sensory enjoyment.
Functional Ergonomics & Palate Delivery
With an 85ml volumetric capacity (70ml functional), this cup is engineered for mindful single-serving appreciation:
- Flared Lip Geometry: The gently flared rim conforms naturally to the contours of the lips, spreading the tea liquor evenly across the lateral and posterior taste buds to highlight minerality and sweetness.
- Substantial Ergonomic Weight: Weighing approximately 130g, the cup provides a balanced, grounded physical presence that anchors the tea master's hand during formal tastings.
- Stove-Side Compatibility: Built to withstand thermal shifts, making it an ideal companion for open-fire charcoal stove brewing and modern Gongfu setups alike.
Living Space Integration, Display & Versatile Uses
This artisanal stoneware cup integrates naturally into a variety of contemporary settings:
- Personal Meditation & Study: Serves as a tactile grounding object on study desks, bedside tables, or reading nooks for daily mindful tea rituals.
- Tea Table Centerpiece: Distinguishes the host's place setting with its distinct rustic glaze texture during group Gongfu gatherings.
- Thoughtful Artisan Gifting: An authentic, soulful gift for tea connoisseurs, ceramic collectors, writers, and practitioners of mindfulness.
Feng Shui & Spatial Energy Balance
Born of fire and natural earth clay, this stoneware chalice embodies the harmonious union of the Fire and Earth Elements. In Feng Shui principles, using earthenware vessels in living and working spaces fosters emotional grounding, inner stability, centered contemplation, and genuine warmth in interpersonal relationships.
Archival Gift Presentation & Multi-Layer Transit Armor
Every ClayZenith ceramic piece is delivered with museum-tier presentation and multi-stage transit protection:
- Complimentary Silk Brocade Gift Box (Jinhe): Each item arrives encased in an exquisite, silk-lined presentation box featuring traditional brocade jacquard weave, satin interior padding, and a secure vintage clasp. Perfect for heirloom display or luxury gift giving.
- Armor-Cushion™ Heavy-Duty Shipping Protection: The presentation box is sealed within custom-molded high-density EVA shock-absorbing foam inserts, reinforced double-wall corner braces, and a heavy-duty 5-ply corrugated export master carton. Engineered to withstand drops, vibrations, and multi-continental courier handling.
- 100% Zero-Breakage Policy: If your ceramic piece sustains any damage during transit, we provide an immediate free replacement from our nearest domestic warehouse—guaranteed.
Technical Specifications & Sizing Chart
| Specification Attribute | Metric Standard | Imperial Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Volumetric Capacity (to rim) | 85 ml | 2.87 fl oz |
| Functional Drinking Volume | 70 ml | 2.36 fl oz |
| Cup Rim Outer Diameter | 7.2 cm | 2.83 inches |
| Cup Total Height | 5.4 cm | 2.12 inches |
| Net Ceramic Weight | 130 g | 4.58 oz |
| Firing Temperature | 1,280°C Reduction Stoneware | Natural Volcanic Ash Glaze |
Care, Cleaning & Maintenance Instructions
- 100% dishwasher and microwave safe. Rinse with warm water after daily use.
- Formulated with 100% natural, non-toxic minerals; lead-free and cadmium-free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the significance of a Master Cup in Gongfu Cha?
A Master Cup (Zhuren Bei) is the dedicated personal cup of the tea host, chosen for its individual artistic identity, weight, and ergonomic hand-feel.
Q: What teas pair best with this cup?
Its heat retention makes it ideal for roasted Wuyi Oolongs, aged Sheng and Shou Puerh, and robust Black Teas.
Q: How fast is shipping to the US, UK, and Australia?
Dispatched locally from regional distribution depots in 7 to 14 business days.
