ClayPurple

Five Tigers

Regular price: $39.99 USD
Sale price: $39.99 USD
Regular price: ~~$69.99~~

Quantity:

What is the cultural meaning behind the Five Tigers pattern on this teacup?

In Chinese culture, tigers are revered as symbols of strength, courage, and protection. The five tigers on this cup are depicted in a dynamic chase motif, which represents overcoming obstacles and seizing opportunities—a powerful reminder of resilience during your daily tea ritual.

Is this cup made from authentic Yixing purple clay, and how can I tell?

Yes, this Five Tigers cup is crafted from genuine Yixing zisha (purple clay), known for its porous, mineral-rich structure that enhances tea flavors over time. Authentic Yixing clay has a matte, slightly grainy texture and produces a clear, bell-like ring when tapped—unlike fakes that sound dull or feel overly glossy.

How should I cure and maintain this Yixing cup for best results?

Before first use, rinse the cup with boiling water and let it air dry—no soap needed, as the clay is porous and will absorb flavors. To build a seasoned patina, dedicate this cup to one tea type (like ripe pu-erh or oolong) and simply rinse with hot water after each use, avoiding any detergents or harsh scrubbing.

Is this teacup better suited for daily use or display as art?

This Five Tigers cup is fully functional for daily tea sessions, but its intricate tiger carving and bold design make it a stunning display piece too. We recommend using it regularly—the clay will develop a beautiful sheen from handling, while the tigers' details remain sharp and vivid.

Which types of tea pair best with this Five Tigers cup?

Dark, full-bodied teas like aged pu-erh, Wuyi rock oolong, or high-mountain oolong complement the cup's bold tiger motif and seasoned clay. The porous Yixing clay also mellows the astringency of darker teas, bringing out their sweetness and depth with each brew.

What makes this Five Tigers cup a good gift, and for what occasions?

This cup carries powerful symbolism of courage and protection, making it an ideal gift for milestones like promotions, graduations, or housewarmings—any time you want to wish someone strength and good fortune. Its unique hand-carved artistry also appeals to collectors and tea enthusiasts who appreciate meaningful, functional art.

Will the tiger carving fade or wear down over time with regular use?

No, the tiger stripes and motifs are carved directly into the clay body before firing, not painted on, so they are permanent and won't fade. In fact, as the cup ages and develops a natural patina from tea oils, the carved areas will gain subtle contrast, making the tigers stand out even more.

Can I use this Five Tigers cup for other hot beverages like coffee or herbal tea?

We recommend sticking to traditional Chinese teas, as Yixing clay is highly porous and will absorb the flavors of whatever you brew. If you use it for coffee or strongly scented herbs, those flavors can linger and interfere with future tea sessions, so a dedicated tea routine gives you the best experience.

Making Process

tenmoku making of process

Description

The Five Tigers tea cup features five stylized tiger motifs representing strength, courage, and protection. The tigers are depicted in dynamic poses chasing prey, their stripes carved with expert precision. A powerful cup for those who seek bold artistry in their tea ware.

📐 Specifications:
【Total height】: 7.8 CM
【Caliber】: 7.0 CM
【Capacity】: 200 ML