Hand-painted gaiwans
A hand-painted gaiwan from Jingdezhen: bowl, lid and saucer, each brushed by a painter.
Three checks before you choose
Hold it empty
Pinch the rim and press the lid knob. A good lip flares enough to keep your fingers off the hot wall.
See where the paint sits
Underglaze blue is sealed in. Overglaze enamels sit on top and feel faintly raised, so they belong outside, away from the tea.
Follow the line
Real brushwork varies in weight and wanders a little. A pattern that repeats perfectly on each side usually means a decal.
Bowl, lid and saucer, every line drawn by hand.
What to look for
Overglaze enamels can contain lead, especially on old or decorative pieces. If you cannot confirm a gaiwan is food safe, keep it for display.
Hand-painted gaiwans
Hand-picked pieces are on the way.
Good to know
How do you use a gaiwan without burning your fingers?
Fill it below the flared rim, hold the rim with thumb and middle finger, and steady the lid knob with your index finger. Then pour quickly.
What size gaiwan should I buy?
About 100 ml suits one or two drinkers, and 150 ml or more suits guests. A smaller gaiwan is easier to hold and pours faster.
Can a hand-painted gaiwan go in the dishwasher?
Better not. Wash it by hand with a soft cloth. Detergent and heat can wear down overglaze enamel and gold.
