Tea pets – companions of the tea ritual
Tea pets are small ceramic figurines that have accompanied tea preparation for centuries. Placed on the tea tray, they are gently bathed with tea during the pouring ritual.
In Chinese tradition, they are seen as symbols of good fortune, prosperity, and joy – some depict zodiac animals, others mythical creatures or playful characters.
With every drop of tea, the figurine slowly develops a natural shine and patina, becoming more unique and cherished over time. Beyond their symbolic meaning, tea pets bring a touch of playfulness and charm to every tea ceremony.
Many tea pets are made from the same clay as the famous Yixing Teapots – known as zisha. This natural material is porous and highly responsive to tea: with regular pouring, the figurine develops a deeper colour, a natural sheen, and a unique character of its own. Over time, each tea pet becomes truly one of a kind.
