Tea pets are charming little figurines meant to accompany you during your gongfu tea sessions. They’re sometimes known as tea companions or mascots, often taking the form of animals—though you'll find them in a wide variety of creative shapes and designs.
Traditionally, tea pets are crafted from porous clay, but they can also be made from materials like ceramic or resin. With time and repeated tea pours, clay tea pets begin to absorb the tea, developing a unique patina. Those with a Ru Yao glaze will slowly show tea stains along the delicate crackle patterns in their finish, making each one even more personal and beautiful.
What Is the Purpose of Tea Pets?
Tea pets serve a simple yet delightful purpose: they are meant to be poured over with tea during gongfu tea sessions. While they might spark curiosity, their role is mostly playful and decorative, adding charm and ritual to the tea table.
Some tea pets come with interactive features—such as changing color, squirting water, or even releasing bubbles—bringing a whimsical touch to the experience. Over time, as tea is poured over them, they develop a unique patina, making each one more personal and meaningful.
For many, tea pets also evoke nostalgia, much like collectible figurines that once accompanied popular teabag brands. Their presence adds a sense of tradition, playfulness, and companionship to the tea ritual.
When Were Tea Pets Invented?
The exact origins of tea pets remain unclear, as there are few historical records documenting their creation. It is generally believed that tea pets began as a byproduct of pottery craftsmanship—figurines molded from leftover clay by teapot makers.
Due to the value of authentic Yixing clay, it is unlikely that such precious material was used for tea pets. Instead, they were more commonly crafted from less expensive clay types.
Some sources suggest that tea pets may date as far back as the 13th century, though verifiable historical evidence to support this claim is limited. As a result, the true beginnings of tea pets remain largely speculative and rooted in tradition rather than documented fact.
How Are Tea Pets Used?
Tea pets are traditionally used by pouring tea over them during a gongfu tea session. To manage the overflow, they are typically placed on a tea table with drainage or within a deep tray or bowl to prevent spillage.
The amount of tea poured on a tea pet varies depending on personal preference. Some practitioners pour only the initial rinse, while others continue to share tea with their companion throughout the session.
In some cases, tea pets are used purely as decorative items, especially when made from materials that are not heat-resistant. Ultimately, their use is flexible and guided by the tea drinker’s own ritual or aesthetic preference.
How to Care for Tea Pets
Tea pets are often made from clay or ceramic, making them somewhat fragile. With gentle handling, they can last for many years as part of a tea ritual. Since tea pets are not used for drinking, they do not need to be dedicated to a specific type of tea. However, pairing lighter-colored tea pets with darker teas can help develop visible patinas more quickly, enhancing their character over time.
When it comes to cleaning, it's best to avoid detergents or chemical cleansers, as the porous materials can absorb unwanted substances, just as they absorb tea. For routine cleaning, a clean cloth or melamine sponge is usually sufficient to remove buildup or stains.
After cleaning, it’s important to let tea pets air dry completely before storage—especially in regions with high humidity—to prevent mold growth and maintain their integrity.
