Wood ash tea set: natural ash, elegance in tea
Among the many teaware crafts, wood ash glaze teaware stands out for its natural, rustic, and elegant qualities. Originating from the ingenious use of natural materials by ancient potters, it remains a favorite firing technique among literati and tea drinkers.
1. Sources of Wood Ash
As the name suggests, plant ash glaze is primarily made from plant ash . Ancient people often used the ashes of burned plants, such as pinewood, straw, bamboo, and tea branches, mixing them with clay or minerals before firing them at high temperatures in a kiln. The glaze's color varies depending on the ash composition of different plants, ranging from a smoky gray to a jade-like softness, and even a subtle green . The naturally flowing glaze makes each piece unique.
2. Aesthetic characteristics of plant ash glaze
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Natural Glaze Color Variations <br data-start="362" data-end="365">The greatest allure of wood ash glaze lies in its " beauty of uncertainty ." The flame, temperature, and ash content all contribute to the glaze's uniquely fluid texture. This naturally occurring smudged effect, reminiscent of swirling mountain mist or shrouded in clouds and water, embodies the subtlety and aura of Eastern art.
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Warm Texture, Jade-Like Feel <br data-start="475" data-end="478">Unlike industrial glazes, wood ash glaze is rich in calcium and potassium, giving the teaware a soft and delicate glaze that feels warm, not cold. Holding a cup in your hand is like caressing a piece of fine jade.
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Simple and subtle, with a profound charm <br data-start="563" data-end="566">Grass ash-glazed tea sets, often in shades of gray-green, pale brown, and light green , are understated yet profound. Their beauty lies not in their brilliance but in their tranquility and depth , perfectly aligning with the peaceful state of mind sought during tea tasting.
3. Use and maintenance
Wood ash glaze tea sets are fired at high temperatures, resulting in high density and low water absorption , making them safe for brewing tea. Recommendations for daily use:
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For the first use, wash with clean water and do not use chemical cleaners;
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Avoid sudden cooling and heating to prevent thermal expansion and contraction from causing cracking of the glaze;
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After long-term use, the glaze will become more moist due to the nourishment of the tea soup, forming a "patina" effect with unique charm.
4. Continuation of Culture and Taste
Plant ash glaze is the product of a dialogue between man and nature . From plant to ash, from soil to porcelain, each step bears the marks of time and fire. It reminds us that, beyond the hustle and bustle of modern life, we can still experience the warmth of the earth and the texture of life through a cup of tea or a touch of ash glaze.
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