Yixing Gaiwan Gong Fu Set (ZiSha: ZiNi)
Gaiwan is the heart and soul of Gong Fu Cha. This versatile item consists of a bowl, lid, and saucer, creating the perfect vessel for infusing tea leaves. But it's not just strictly utilitarian. As you gently lift the lid, the rich scents wafting from the steeping leaves touch your senses. And, as you brew, gaiwan provides a captivating view of the leaves unfurling, adding visual delight to your tea session. Now, let's talk about the exceptional qualities of ZiSha clay from the delta of the Yangtze River, specifically about the renowned Zi Ni clay. Among the various Yixing clays, Zi Ni clay stands out as a favorite choice. Its brewing behavior is quite different from that of glass, porcelain, or glazed ware, and many people feel it gives the tea a rounder texture and a more focused aroma. Zi Ni clay is composed of a blend of kaolinite, quartz, and mica with a high iron oxide content, giving it a slightly sandy feel. When it’s fired, it becomes a dense, slightly porous stoneware. The un