Porcelain Tea Cups

History of Porcelain Tea Cups

Chinese porcelain tea sets have a very long and rich cultural history. The earliest primitive celadon, a type of green-glazed porcelain, was discovered at the Longshan cultural site in Xiaxian, Shanxi, dating back about 4200 years. In ancient China, clay tea cups were initially used. However, as time went on, porcelain tea cups became more popular due to their exquisite craftsmanship. Despite this evolution, many people still appreciate the rustic charm of clay tea cups.

 How to Choose a Porcelain Tea Cup Style？

During the Tang and Song dynasties, Chinese porcelain craftsmanship reached its peak. The styles and techniques of porcelain tea cups became highly refined during this period. In the following eras, the design of porcelain tea cups evolved with the changing tea culture. Modern tea enthusiasts have varied preferences for tea cup styles, but there is always a market for traditional designs from any era. Therefore, you should select a vintage style that you personally like.

Antique Chinese Porcelain Tea Cups

In ancient China, various famous imperial kilns produced porcelain. These kilns employed the finest artisans and represented the pinnacle of royal taste. Their creations have always been emulated by common folk. Although modern ceramic technology cannot replicate the exquisite quality of the imperial kilns, it is more than sufficient for everyday use.

 White Porcelain Tea Cups

The Xing kiln, known for producing “Chinese white,” has a long history and is recognized as one of the earliest white porcelain kilns in China. It was one of the seven famous kilns of the Tang Dynasty. The kiln reached its peak during the Tang Dynasty after rapid development in the Sui Dynasty but declined by the late Tang and Five Dynasties periods. It was a major center for early white porcelain production in China.

Eggshell Porcelain Tea Cups

Eggshell porcelain tea cups are characterized by their extremely thin and lightweight walls, almost as thin as an eggshell. These tea cups are usually very delicate, with a smooth surface and good clarity, giving them an elegant and refined appearance. Eggshell porcelain was first invented by artisans in Jingdezhen, Jiangxi, China, during the Ming Dynasty. Once it was created, it quickly gained popularity and was exported to Europe as early as the 17th century.

Blue and White Porcelain Tea Cups

Blue and white porcelain, one of the main types of Chinese porcelain, is made using cobalt oxide to paint designs on the ceramic body, which is then covered with a transparent glaze and fired at high temperatures. The earliest examples of blue and white porcelain date back to the Tang and Song dynasties, but mature blue and white porcelain emerged during the Yuan Dynasty in the kilns of Jingdezhen. The development of blue and white porcelain has made these tea cups very popular.

Japanese Porcelain Tea Cups

Japanese tea cups originated from Chinese designs but have evolved with distinct characteristics. Japanese styles are generally more rustic and natural, often using black, white, or natural-colored ceramics. However, due to modern exchanges, the differences between Chinese and Japanese tea cups have diminished, with each market influencing the other’s designs. Unless you are looking for artisanal pieces signed by the artisans, the distinction between Chinese and Japanese tea cups can often be overlooked.

 Cheap Porcelain Tea Cups We Stock

We offer a variety of popular yet vintage-style tea cups. Designed by artisans and manufactured affordably in China, our products are both beautiful and cost-effective. These tea cups have been tested in the market for over a decade and feature timeless and durable designs. We welcome you to browse our collection of cheap porcelain tea cups.

How to Clean Tea Stains from Porcelain Cups？

To remove tea stains from porcelain cups, rinse the cup with water, leaving it damp but without standing water. Then, use dry salt or toothpaste to scrub the cup walls, and finally, rinse with clean water.